Lebanon has accused Israel of spraying agricultural herbicides over southern villages, with laboratory tests confirming dangerously high concentrations of glyphosate, a chemical used to kill vegetation.
Lebanese agriculture and environment ministries said some samples showed levels up to 30 times higher than accepted limits. President Joseph Aoun condemned the act as a violation of sovereignty and an environmental and health crime.
The Israel Defense Forces declined to comment. However, UN peacekeepers said Israel had earlier notified them of planned spraying near the border, forcing them to suspend some operations.
Residents in affected border communities fear severe damage to crops, soil, and livelihoods, especially as many are only beginning to return after the 2023–24 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Human Rights Watch said the incident further complicates recovery in agriculture-dependent areas.
Environmental groups warned of long-term risks to biodiversity, pollinators, and food security. While glyphosate is classified by the WHO’s cancer agency as “probably carcinogenic,” other regulators say it is unlikely to pose serious cancer risks.
Lebanon’s foreign ministry said it plans to file a formal complaint with the UN Security Council.
Credit: BBC News
Discover more from Ayobami Blog
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
