Firefighters and residents in southern Lebanon have reported that the Israeli military is intentionally starting wildfires across the region through bombing runs, drone strikes, and the deployment of incendiary materials. According to Hussein Fakih, head of civil defence in the Nabatieh region, most firefighting operations have become focused on combating these blazes, with approximately 30-40% of land near frontline areas affected. The incidents have intensified in recent weeks, with reports indicating that drones drop incendiary materials and white phosphorus shells targeting woodlands and agricultural areas, particularly olive groves.
Firefighters attempting to extinguish the flames have faced obstacles, including drone strikes that force them to withdraw from affected areas. Civil defence personnel also reported restrictions on where they were permitted to conduct firefighting operations, having received authorization to fight fires at only select locations despite blazes raging across multiple areas. The Israeli military declined to comment on the wildfire incidents when contacted.
Environmental organizations have characterized the fires as part of a systematic pattern of attacks on Lebanon’s natural environment. According to conservation experts, the long-established woodlands in the region support critical ecosystems and serve as migration routes for birds. Environmental groups describe the campaign as degrading the landscape through munitions, fire, and chemical applications, with cascading effects on civilian populations and their ability to sustain livelihoods on the land.
The military actions have also caused significant personal loss among displaced residents. Residents of border villages report that centuries-old olive groves inherited from previous generations have been destroyed, along with homes that were previously bulldozed. Local officials have stated that the destruction appears designed to render the territory uninhabitable and erase the cultural heritage of communities in the region.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI