**Title: Allegations of Intentional Wildfires in Southern Lebanon by Israeli Forces**
Lebanese firefighters have made serious allegations against Israel, claiming that the Israeli military is deliberately igniting wildfires across southern Lebanon using drones and incendiary munitions. These claims were reported to the Guardian by Hussein Fakih, head of civil defense in the Nabatieh region, who stated that the fires have devastated large areas of woodland, olive groves, and farmland since a ceasefire was established on June 17, effectively halting hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Fakih estimated that the wildfires have affected between 30% to 40% of land in certain areas near the frontline. He asserted that the Israeli forces began setting these fires shortly after the ceasefire took effect, alleging that drones have been utilized to drop incendiary materials, while white phosphorus shells and illumination flares have been used to target wooded areas.
On a recent Tuesday, Fakih reported that Israeli forces dropped flares over a wooded area near Khiam, igniting fires that posed a significant challenge for firefighting efforts. As firefighters attempted to extinguish the blaze, a drone reportedly struck near their location, compelling them to withdraw for safety.
These allegations coincide with findings from a visual investigation conducted by the Financial Times and the nonprofit journalism organization Lighthouse Reports, which documented extensive destruction in areas of southern Lebanon that are under Israeli occupation. The investigation revealed significant damage to homes, schools, farmland, forests, and critical infrastructure. Satellite imagery suggested that much of this destruction occurred after Israeli forces took control of evacuated villages in mid-April.
Following the escalation of military activity, Israeli forces advanced deeper into southern Lebanon, establishing what officials have termed a security buffer zone. By June, it was reported that Israel controlled approximately 2,000 square kilometers of Lebanese territory, which constitutes around one-fifth of the country.
In response to these developments, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has consistently called for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory. He has also vowed to restore essential services to enable displaced residents to return to their homes.
The ongoing situation in southern Lebanon remains tense, with the allegations of intentional wildfires adding another layer of complexity to the already strained relations between Lebanon and Israel. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, the humanitarian impact of these fires and the broader conflict remains a pressing concern.