Key facts
- Israeli forces reportedly used flare bombs, incendiary munitions, phosphorus shells, and drones to start fires in southern Lebanon.
- The fires have affected large areas of forest, agricultural land, and olive groves.
- Firefighters have faced difficulties in extinguishing the blazes due to restrictions on access and ongoing Israeli military activity.
- Environmental groups and Lebanese officials have condemned the actions as 'ecocide' and a 'scorched-earth policy'.
- The Israeli military acknowledged potential environmental impacts and stated precautionary measures are taken.
Israeli forces have been accused by Lebanese authorities, firefighters, and residents of deliberately starting wildfires in southern Lebanon using incendiary munitions and drones. The fires, which began after a ceasefire in June, have destroyed significant areas of forest, olive groves, and agricultural land.
Reports indicate that Israeli forces dropped flare bombs over the Aita al-Jabal forest, sparking blazes, and also caused a large explosion in the town of Houla. Firefighters attempting to extinguish these fires have faced challenges, with some forced to withdraw after drones struck nearby. Access to fire-affected areas is reportedly coordinated through a deconfliction group that includes the Israeli military, and permission to fight fires has sometimes been granted only after blazes have already spread extensively.
Environmental groups have characterized these actions as part of a pattern of Israeli attacks against Lebanon’s environment, labeling it 'ecocide' and a destruction of ecosystems that threatens biodiversity and livelihoods. Lebanon's Prime Minister has accused Israel of pursuing a 'scorched-earth policy' in the south. The Israeli military has stated it is aware of the potential environmental impact of its operations and claims to conduct them with precautionary measures to mitigate harm.
These developments occur amidst ongoing tensions between Hezbollah and Israel, with the US State Department emphasizing that Hezbollah must disarm for Lebanon to achieve safety and sovereignty.