Firefighters, Residents Accuse Israel of Causing Wildfires in Southern Lebanon

Firefighters, Residents Accuse Israel of Causing Wildfires in Southern Lebanon
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Firefighters, residents, and environmental groups in southern Lebanon have accused the Israeli military of deliberately causing wildfires in the region, claiming that recent blazes have damaged forests, agricultural land, and olive groves.

Lebanese civil defence officials said numerous fires have erupted in areas near the border, with some reportedly linked to Israeli drones, flares, and other military activity. Hussein Fakih, head of civil defence in the Nabatieh region, said firefighting teams have faced increasing challenges, with large areas of woodland affected by fires.

According to local emergency officials, several fires occurred in areas including Khiam, Kfarchouba, and regions between Jezzine and the western Bekaa valley. Firefighters said some operations were complicated by security restrictions and required coordination through the Lebanese army and a deconfliction mechanism involving the Israeli military.

Environmental organizations warned that the fires could have long-term consequences for Lebanon’s ecosystems, including the destruction of forests that support biodiversity and serve as habitats for migratory birds. Conservation groups described the damage as part of a broader pattern of environmental destruction affecting southern Lebanon.

Residents of border villages, including Yaroun, said fires had destroyed olive and fruit groves with deep historical and economic importance to local communities. They accused Israeli forces of damaging agricultural areas and making parts of the region difficult for residents to return to.

The Israeli military rejected claims of intentionally targeting the environment, stating that its operations are conducted with precautions to reduce harm to civilians and the environment. It has previously said that some forested areas were used by Hezbollah for military purposes.