By Abbas Nazil
Lebanon has accused Israel of committing “ecocide” following extensive environmental destruction during military operations between 2023 and 2024, according to a newly released national report.
The allegation was made by environment minister Tamara el Zein, who said the scale and intent of the damage to forests, farmland, water systems, and air quality amount to a severe environmental crime with long-term consequences.
The 106-page report, prepared by National Council for Scientific Research – Lebanon, outlines widespread ecological devastation across southern Lebanon, including the loss of critical ecosystems and disruption of essential services such as agriculture and water supply.
According to the findings, more than 5,000 hectares of forest were damaged, including pine and broadleaf habitats, contributing to biodiversity loss, soil erosion, and local climate disruption.
Agricultural losses were also severe, with $118m in physical assets destroyed and an additional $586m lost due to reduced production and disrupted harvests.
Over 2,000 hectares of orchards, including olive and citrus farms, were devastated, alongside significant damage to banana plantations and fisheries infrastructure.
The report further highlights dangerous environmental contamination, with soil phosphorus levels reaching up to 1,858 parts per million in some areas, particularly in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa valley.
Air pollution from military activity released harmful substances including sulphur and nitrogen oxides, dioxins, and other toxic compounds, extending beyond immediate conflict zones and posing risks to public health.
Overall, the environmental and economic cost of the conflict is estimated at $25bn, including physical damage, economic losses, and recovery needs.
The report also draws comparisons with environmental destruction in Gaza, where similar patterns of farmland loss, pollution, and ecosystem collapse were observed during the same period.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces stated that it takes environmental impacts into account and operates with measures aimed at minimizing harm while ensuring national security.
Lebanon has called for international support to address the scale of environmental recovery required, warning that the country cannot manage the burden alone.
