Lebanese firefighters accuse Israel of intentionally causing fires during strikes - report

Lebanese firefighters and environmental groups told The Guardian that Israel is intentionally starting fires in southern Lebanon during strikes. Hussein Fakih, head of civil defense in Nabatiya, said 30-40% of land near the frontline has burned, and that drones drop incendiary materials and phosphorus shells. Another chief, Samir Hardan, said drones started two fires in three days. Hisham Younes of Green Southerners called it a pattern of destruction. The IDF said strikes take precautions to mitigate harm.

Lebanese firefighters and environmental groups accused Israel of intentionally starting fires in southern Lebanon during strikes, in a report published by The Guardian on Wednesday. Hussein Fakih, head of civil defense in the Nabatiya region, said most of their missions now relate to fires, with around 30-40% of land near the frontline affected. He claimed firefighters were targeted by Israeli drones and that incendiary bombs, white phosphorus, and illumination flares were used daily since the ceasefire. Another civil defense chief, Samir Hardan, said drones started two fires within three days, and firefighting required coordination with the Lebanese Army and a deconfliction group including the IDF. Hisham Younes, founder of Green Southerners, described a pattern of destruction eroding ecosystems and livelihoods. The IDF responded that all strikes were conducted with precautionary measures to mitigate harm to civilians and the environment.