When it comes to lebanon accuses israel of committing ‘ecocide’ in country since 2023, in a scathing assessment, Lebanon's Environment Minister Tamara el Zein has labeled Israel's military actions in southern Lebanon as an "act of ecocide." This accusation comes in the foreword of a comprehensive report that highlights extensive damage to the country's natural resources during the Ongoing Conflict between 2023 and 2024. The report, published amid a fragile ceasefire, states that the Israeli military's aggression has "reshaped both the physical and ecological landscape" of the region.
Understanding Lebanon Accuses Israel Of Committing ‘ecocide’ In Country Since 2023
The 106-page report outlines the significant ecological disruption and loss of essential ecosystem services that southern Lebanon has experienced. According to el Zein, the deliberate destruction of forests, agricultural lands, and marine ecosystems poses a serious threat to public health, food security, and national resilience. She stated, "The scale and intentionality of the damage to forests, agricultural lands, marine ecosystems, water resources, and atmospheric quality constitute what must be recognised as an act of ecocide, with consequences that extend far beyond immediate destruction." These remarks underscore the seriousness of the environmental crisis Lebanon faces. Originally reported by The Guardian.
During the conflict, Israeli forces reportedly caused extensive damage, affecting an estimated 5,000 hectares (12,350 acres) of forest cover, including various species of trees vital for local biodiversity. The destruction of these forests not only poses a threat to wildlife but also disrupts local climates and contributes to soil erosion. The report estimates that physical agricultural assets valued at $118 million (£87 million) have been lost, including crops, livestock facilities, and fisheries. Furthermore, losses in agricultural production due to disrupted harvests and reduced yields have reached approximately $586 million (£433 million).
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
The toll on Lebanon's agricultural landscape is staggering. The report details that over 2,154 hectares (5,320 acres) of orchards have been destroyed, impacting critical crops such as olives and citrus fruits. In addition to the immediate destruction, the contamination of soils has raised serious concerns. Phosphorus levels have reached alarming concentrations of up to 1,858 parts per million, particularly in regions like south Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley.
Moreover, the environmental crisis extends beyond soil and water. Widespread air pollution episodes have been reported, with toxic compounds such as dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons being released into the atmosphere. These pollutants not only affect the health of local populations but also compromise the integrity of Lebanon's ecosystems. The implications are dire, threatening both biodiversity and the health of communities that rely on these resources.
The Financial Cost of Conflict
The financial ramifications of the ecological devastation are profound. The report estimates that Lebanon faces a staggering total cost of $25 billion (£18 billion), which includes $6.8 billion in physical damages, $7.2 billion in economic losses, and $11 billion needed for recovery and reconstruction. El Zein emphasized that Lebanon cannot shoulder this burden alone, calling for international solidarity and support to address the environmental recovery needs. She remarked, "The scale of the damage and the costs of restoration demand collective action and long-term partnerships." This plea highlights the urgent need for global attention and assistance.
Doug Weir, the director of the Conflict and Environment Observatory, noted that the report's focus on building better infrastructure and strengthening national environmental monitoring capacities is vital for conflict-affected states. However, he cautioned that elements of the report are already outdated due to the ongoing destruction. He specifically pointed out the devastation in areas occupied by Israeli forces, particularly south of the Litani River.
Israeli Response and International Criticism
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the potential environmental impacts of military operations but maintained that all actions are taken to protect citizens and ensure safety in the region. The IDF claims that precautions are implemented to minimize harm to both civilians and the environment.
Israel's military actions have drawn sharp criticism, with observers noting that the current situation mirrors tactics previously employed during the conflict in Gaza. This includes targeting civilian infrastructure, issuing expulsion orders, and causing widespread destruction across villages. Critics assert that the ecological and humanitarian crises in southern Lebanon are part of a broader pattern of military aggression, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of the region.
As Lebanon grapples with the aftermath of the conflict, the call for international cooperation grows louder. The damage to its natural resources and the threat to livelihoods underscore the importance of addressing these environmental crises swiftly and effectively.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.