politics
Israel deliberately starting wildfires in southern Lebanon, firefighters say
First responders, residents and environmental groups say military dropping flares to destroy forests and crops
TL;DR
- Firefighters and residents in south Lebanon accuse the Israeli military of deliberately starting wildfires.
- Methods allegedly used include dropping flares, incendiary bombs, and munitions from drones.
- These fires have burned large areas of woodland, olive groves, and agricultural land.
- Environmental groups describe the attacks as 'ecocide' and part of a pattern of targeting Lebanon's environment.
- Firefighters report being hindered in extinguishing fires, with limited permissions granted.
- The Israeli military has previously claimed Hezbollah uses these forested areas for cover.
- Past actions include using trebuchets to launch flaming debris and dropping herbicides.
- Residents report the destruction of ancient olive groves and homes, impacting livelihoods and cultural heritage.