Lebanese firefighters accuse Israel of intentionally causing fires during strikes - report

Lebanese firefighters and environmental groups have accused Israel of intentionally causing fires during their recent strikes, according to a report by The Guardian. Hussein Fakih, the head of the civil defense in the Nabatiya region, stated that "most of our missions are now related to fires" and that "there are enormous areas of woodland that have burned."

The extent of the affected land is estimated to be between 30-40% near the frontline. Fakih also blamed Israeli drones for making it difficult to extinguish some fires, alleging that they are dropping incendiary materials, white phosphorus shells, and illumination flares during the daytime to set the vegetation ablaze.

Another civil defense chief, Samir Hardan, confirmed that Israeli drones had started two fires within three days, and that firefighting efforts had to be coordinated with the Lebanese Army. The coordination involved a deconfliction group that included the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Environmentalists, however, have condemned the IDF for causing fires and contributing to the destruction of ecosystems in Lebanon. Hisham Younes, the founder of the Lebanese conservation group Green Southerners, emphasized that these actions lead to a pattern of destruction that erodes the ability of ecosystems to function, regenerate, and sustain life.

The affected woodlands, dominated by stone pine and oak trees, serve critical functions and are an essential passage and resting ground for migratory birds. Younes stressed the importance of preserving these environments, as their loss is intertwined with the broader transformation of the territory itself.

The IDF informed The Guardian that all strikes on Lebanon were conducted with precautions taken to minimize harm to civilians and the environment.