Lebanese Firefighters Accuse Israel of Starting Fires

Extensive forest and agricultural areas have been engulfed by flames in recent weeks, which local rescue workers and residents say are being caused by the Israeli military's use of drones and munitions. The military has not responded to the allegations.

On Tuesday, flares dropped near the town of Khiam reportedly set vegetation ablaze. When firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire, a drone attacked them nearby, forcing them to retreat. Hussein Fakih, head of civil defense in the Nabatieh region, estimates the fires have affected 30%–40% of the land along the front line.

Similar incidents have been reported elsewhere. Rescue workers say the flames are caused by drone strikes and the use of incendiary materials, white phosphorus or flares.

Environmental organizations warn of long-term destruction of nature, including pine and oak forests important to migratory birds.

The Israeli military has argued in the past that Hezbollah uses forested areas as cover for its fighters and tunnels.

(The Guardian, bak)