Israel’s Environmental Degradation in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria

Earth for Palestine

Introduction

Environmental degradation under occupation and apartheid often stems from military operations, resource exploitation, and infrastructural destruction. In the context of Israel’s occupation of Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, significant environmental harm has been reported. These impacts include deforestation, pollution, depletion of water resources, and destruction of agricultural lands on top of human life loss. This report focuses and outlines the key environmental issues in these regions attributed to Israeli policies and military actions.

Environmental Impact in Palestine

Water Resource Exploitation and Pollution

Israel exerts control over most water resources in the occupied Palestinian territories. The diversion of water from the Jordan River and over-extraction from the Mountain and Coastal Aquifers has led to severe water shortages for Palestinians. Moreover, wastewater from Israeli settlements has polluted Palestinian farmlands and water sources, with untreated sewage discharged into the West Bank’s valleys and streams.

Theft of Natural Resources: Gas and Oil Exploitation

Israel has been stealing Palestinian natural resources, particularly in Gaza, where it has restricted Palestinian access to offshore gas fields. Reports indicate that Israel has taken control of gas reserves off the coast of Gaza, depriving Palestinians of their rightful resources and economic opportunities. Furthermore, Israel has shown interest in oil drilling in Gaza, raising concerns over environmental degradation and economic exploitation.

Gaza is home to significant natural gas reserves, primarily located offshore in the Mediterranean Sea. These reserves have the potential to provide Palestinians with economic independence and energy security. However, Israeli policies and military control have largely prevented Palestinians from accessing and benefiting from these resources. This section examines Israel’s exploitation of Gaza’s oil and gas reserves and the environmental, economic, and political consequences of this resource theft.

Gas Reserves in Gaza

The Gaza Marine gas field, discovered in 1999 by British Gas (BG Group), is estimated to contain over 1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. It lies about 30 kilometers off the coast of Gaza in Palestinian territorial waters. This field could generate billions in revenue and significantly reduce Palestinian dependence on foreign energy imports. However, despite this potential, Palestinians have been denied the ability to develop and extract these resources due to Israeli restrictions.

Israeli Control and Resource Exploitation

Israel has effectively seized control over Gaza’s maritime resources, preventing Palestinian authorities from extracting gas and negotiating independent deals for its sale.

Over the years, Israel has:

Blocked Palestinian access to the gas field through military-enforced maritime restrictions.
Negotiated with international energy companies to exploit the gas without Palestinian consent.
Extracted gas from adjacent fields, some of which extend into Palestinian waters, depriving Gaza of its rightful share.
Blocked all fuel, water, food from entering Gaza for 17 months, violating International human rights law

Israeli authorities have argued security concerns as justification for these restrictions, but critics view this as part of a broader strategy to maintain economic dominance over the Palestinian territories.

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Oil Exploration in Gaza

Beyond natural gas, reports indicate that Israel has explored the possibility of offshore oil drilling in Palestinian-controlled areas. While oil reserves in Gaza are less documented than its gas fields, Israeli interest in energy exploration raises concerns over further** environmental degradation and economic exploitation.**

Economic and Environmental Consequences

Economic Consequences

The inability to exploit its own natural gas means **Gaza remains dependent on Israeli energy supplies, **which are often restricted or cut off at whim.
Potential revenue from gas sales, estimated in the billions of dollars, could have funded infrastructure, healthcare, and development in Gaza.
Israel’s control over these resources reinforces Palestinian economic stagnation and vulnerability.

Environmental Consequences

Any unauthorized Israeli drilling and extraction risks polluting Gaza’s coastline and disrupting marine ecosystems.
Oil and gas extraction, if improperly managed, could lead to oil spills, gas leaks, and long-term ecological damage in Palestinian waters.
By denying Palestinians control, Israel prevents the development of environmentally sustainable energy policies in Gaza.

The case of Gaza’s oil and gas reserves highlights the broader issue of resource exploitation in occupied territories. Israel’s control over these vital energy sources has deprived Palestinians of economic independence, reinforced dependence on Israeli energy supplies, and raised concerns about environmental degradation. Addressing this issue requires international intervention and legal accountability to ensure that Palestinians regain control over their natural wealth.

Deforestation, Fruit Tree Theft, and Land Degradation Israeli settlement expansion and military occupation have led to large-scale deforestation in Palestine. Olive groves, which are crucial for Palestinian livelihoods, have been systematically uprooted or burned by settlers and the Israeli military. Beyond destruction, reports indicate that Israeli entities have engaged in the systematic theft of Palestinian fruit-bearing trees, particularly olive trees, citrus trees, and date palms. These stolen trees are often transplanted into Israeli settlements or sold commercially for profit. The removal of these trees not only affects the Palestinian agricultural economy but also depletes the region’s biodiversity and accelerates desertification. The construction of the separation wall has further fragmented ecosystems and disrupted natural habitats, making it difficult for Palestinian farmers to access and tend to their lands.

Air and Soil Pollution Frequent military strikes and the use of heavy artillery, including white phosphorus munitions in Gaza, have contaminated the soil and air, impacting public health and biodiversity. The destruction of waste treatment facilities in Gaza has resulted in the uncontrolled spread of hazardous materials. The use of phosphorus gas has exacerbated environmental and health risks, as it releases toxic chemicals that persist in the air and soil, further harming ecosystems and human populations.

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Environmental Impact in Lebanon

Oil Spill and Marine Pollution One of the most catastrophic environmental disasters in Lebanon occurred during the 2006 war, when Israeli airstrikes targeted the Jiyyeh power station, causing a massive oil spill along Lebanon’s Mediterranean coast. This spill devastated marine life and severely compromised the livelihoods of coastal communities dependent on fishing.

Forest Fires and Land Degradation Israeli shelling and airstrikes have led to extensive wildfires in southern Lebanon, destroying large forested areas. These fires have further contributed to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity. The use of cluster munitions has left unexploded ordnance scattered across agricultural lands, posing risks to farmers and restricting land use.

**Phosphorus Gas Usage **Reports indicate that Israeli forces have used white phosphorus munitions in Lebanon, particularly during the 2006 war. The use of this incendiary substance has led to severe environmental and health hazards, contaminating soil and water sources, and causing long-term ecological damage.

Effects of White Phosphorus on the Environment

Air Pollution and Toxic Emissions

When white phosphorus burns, it releases toxic phosphorus pentoxide, which reacts with moisture in the air to form corrosive phosphoric acid. This leads to:

Severe air pollution, particularly in areas where phosphorus munitions are used extensively.
Respiratory problems in exposed populations due to inhalation of toxic fumes.
Acidic rainfall, which can damage crops, contaminate water sources, and degrade soil quality over time.

Soil and Water Contamination

Phosphorus residue can seep into the soil, making agricultural land infertile and contaminating groundwater.
Rainwater can carry phosphorus particles into rivers and reservoirs, polluting drinking water sources.
Toxic runoff from phosphorus-affected areas can disrupt local ecosystems, harming wildlife and fisheries.

Human Health Consequences

It is estimated that the lethal dose of white phosphorus in humans is 0.1 grams, but even a much smaller amount can have adverse effects on people including:

Severe burns: White phosphorus sticks to human skin, causing deep burns that are difficult to treat.
Chronic respiratory diseases: Inhalation of phosphorus fumes can lead to lung damage, chronic coughing, and long-term breathing issues.
Neurological damage: Long-term exposure has been linked to neurological disorders and cognitive impairments.
Damage to vital organs: Exposure to white phosphorus is also linked to **kidney and liver failure and gastrointestinal irritation **as well.
Increased cancer risk: Studies suggest exposure to phosphorus combustion byproducts may increase the likelihood of certain cancers.

Measuring Air Quality in Phosphorus-Affected Areas

1. Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors – Detecting Airborne Phosphorus Particles

Example: The PurpleAir PA-II Sensor, used globally for real-time air quality monitoring, can detect fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) that may contain phosphorus residues. Similar sensors have been deployed in Gaza and Lebanon by environmental organizations to measure pollution from conflict zones.

Application in Lebanon: These sensors can be placed in bombed areas to detect phosphorus dust and track its spread. Data can help assess how far toxic particles travel and how long they remain in the air.

2. Chemical Gas Analyzers – Measuring Phosphorus Pentoxide and Acidic Compounds Example: The Thermo Scientific Model 43i SO₂ Analyzer can measure sulfur dioxide and phosphorus oxides, which are byproducts of white phosphorus combustion. Gas analyzers like this have been used in Iraq and Syria to monitor chemical weapon residues.

Application in Lebanon: After phosphorus bombings, these analyzers can detect toxic gases lingering in the air, confirming environmental contamination and assessing health risks.

3. Satellite Imaging and Remote Sensing – Tracking Pollution and Fire-Related Emissions Example:

**NASA’s MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) **has been used to monitor fire emissions and air pollution from forest fires, wars, and industrial explosions.
The Sentinel-5P satellite (operated by the European Space Agency) can detect airborne chemicals, including phosphorus-related pollutants.

** Application in Lebanon:**

Satellite data can show where phosphorus munitions were used, the scale of air pollution, and how long contamination persists. This method has already been used to track oil spill pollution from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon’s Jiyyeh power plant in 2006.

**4. Groundwater and Soil Testing – Detecting Phosphorus Contamination in Land and Water

Example:

The ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) technique has been used to detect heavy metal contamination in war zones, including Gaza.
Lebanon’s National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS-L) has conducted soil and water quality assessments after Israeli bombings.

**Application in Lebanon: **After phosphorus munitions are used, soil and groundwater samples can be tested for phosphorus compounds. This can confirm contamination levels in farmlands and drinking water sources, affecting agriculture and human health.

International agencies, including the UN and environmental monitoring organizations, could deploy these methods to document the long-term consequences of phosphorus weapon use in Lebanon.

The use of white phosphorus by the Israeli military in Lebanon has had severe environmental, health, and ecological consequences. Toxic emissions contribute to air pollution, soil degradation, and water contamination, while exposed populations suffer from chronic illnesses and long-term health risks. Conducting air quality and soil contamination assessments is essential to quantify the full impact and push for accountability under international law.

Environmental Impact in Syria

Destruction of Agricultural Lands and Water Resource Control in Syria

Destruction of Agricultural Lands in the Golan Heights

The Golan Heights, a fertile and strategic plateau occupied by Israel since 1967, has faced extensive environmental destruction due to Israeli military operations. Syrian officials and environmental organizations have reported severe damage to farmland caused by:

Airstrikes and Bombardment – Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian infrastructure and military positions have also impacted farmlands, orchards, and grazing areas. Explosions cause soil degradation, destroy crops, and leave behind unexploded ordnance that makes agricultural activities hazardous.

Example: In multiple strikes on Syrian territories near the Golan Heights, Israeli missiles have set farmland ablaze, reducing agricultural productivity.

Land Confiscation and Settlement Expansion – Israeli settlements in the occupied Golan Heights have expanded, displacing Syrian farmers and reducing the available land for local agricultural production.

Example: The Israeli government has promoted new settlements such as Trump Heights, further restricting access to farmlands for displaced Syrian families.

Military Exercises and Land Degradation – The Israeli military frequently conducts live-fire exercises in parts of the Golan Heights, which result in:

Soil contamination from spent ammunition.
Fires caused by explosions, further damaging local ecosystems and farmland.
Erosion due to heavy military vehicle movement, making it harder to cultivate crops.

The destruction of Syrian farmland has led to:

Loss of food security, as Syria depends on the Golan for fruit, grains, and livestock grazing.

Economic hardship for farmers who rely on agriculture as their primary source of income.

Long-term environmental damage, including desertification and reduced soil fertility.

Water Resource Control and Its Impact on Syrian Communities

The Golan Heights is a vital water source, as it supplies the Jordan River, Yarmouk River, and Sea of Galilee, making it one of the most strategically important regions in the Middle East. Since Israel’s occupation, it has imposed severe restrictions on Syrian communities’ access to water, leading to drought and agricultural collapse. As of now, **Israel controls 40% of Jordan and Syria’s shared water resources. **

1. Israeli Control of Springs, Rivers, and Aquifers

The Banias and Dan Springs, which contribute to the Jordan River’s flow, have been heavily diverted by Israel.
The Yarmouk River, which originally supplied water to both Syria and Jordan, has been partially controlled and redirected by and to Israel, reducing both Syrian and Jordanian water availability.

2. Water Theft by Israeli Settlements

Israeli authorities are stealing water access for settlers in the Golan Heights, leaving Syrian villages with minimal or no water supply for drinking and irrigation.

Example: Syrian farmers in the Golan struggle to irrigate their fields, while Israeli settlements enjoy advanced water infrastructure for agriculture and domestic use.

3. Desertification and Agricultural Decline

Without sufficient water, once-fertile Syrian lands in the Golan are turning into arid wastelands.
Reduced water flow has led to lower crop yields and made livestock farming unsustainable. ****Deforestation and loss of vegetation due to Israeli land seizures and military actions have worsened soil erosion.

Impact on Local Farmers: Many Syrian Druze farmers in the Golan Heights have faced **increased water shortages **and have been forced to abandon their agricultural lands due to Israeli-imposed restrictions.

Political and Economic Consequences: Israel’s monopolization of Golan’s water has weakened Syrian agricultural independence and placed further strain on Syria’s war-torn economy.

Israeli policies in the occupied Golan Heights have led to the systematic destruction of agricultural lands and severe water shortages for Syrian communities. Military operations, settlement expansion, and water control measures have turned once-productive lands into **barren, drought-stricken areas.

** These actions exacerbate food insecurity, economic hardship, and environmental decline, further deepening the impact of Israel’s occupation on Syria’s rural populations.

Satellite imagery has been instrumental in documenting the environmental and infrastructural impacts of military actions in Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. Below are specific examples illustrating these effects:

Lebanon:

Beirut Port Explosion (August 2020): Satellite images captured the extensive damage caused by the explosion at Beirut’s port, highlighting the widespread destruction of the surrounding area. The Express Tribune
Southern Lebanon Airstrikes (2024): NASA’s Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) detected numerous heat signatures in southern Lebanon, confirming intense airstrikes that significantly impacted the region. Sensex falls over 100 pts+1www.ndtv.com+1

Palestine (Gaza Strip):

Destruction in Rafah (2024): Satellite imagery revealed vast destruction in Rafah following ground operations, with significant damage to residential areas and infrastructure. bellingcat
Widespread Damage Across Gaza (2024): Maps, charts, and satellite images demonstrated extensive damage to buildings throughout the Gaza Strip since the onset of conflict. The Express Tribune+3The Guardian+3AP News+3

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*Satellite images show destruction from Israel’s assault on Gaza *

Israel’s Actions as Ecocide: The Environmental Destruction in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria

Beyond the catastrophic loss of human life, Israel’s military actions and environmental policies amount to ecocide—the deliberate destruction of ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria. The widespread devastation to land, water, and air in these regions has caused long-term, possibly irreversible, damage to the environment, affecting both people and wildlife for generations to come.

1. Systematic Destruction of Farmlands and Forests

Palestine (West Bank & Gaza)

Olive Tree Uprooting & Agricultural Sabotage: The Israeli military and settlers have destroyed over 800,000 olive trees in the West Bank since 1967. These trees are essential to Palestinian culture, economy, and environmental stability.
Bombing of Gaza’s Agricultural Land: Repeated aerial bombardments and shelling have burned entire farmlands, rendering them infertile due to chemical contamination from explosives.
Use of Herbicides to Destroy Crops: Israel has sprayed toxic herbicides along Gaza’s border, killing Palestinian crops under the pretext of clearing security zones. This has led to soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and food insecurity.

Lebanon

Forest Fires Caused by Bombing: Israeli shelling in southern Lebanon has sparked wildfires that consume vast forested areas, leading to habitat loss and soil erosion.
**Cluster Munitions Contaminating Land: **Unexploded Israeli cluster bombs from the 2006 war still litter fields, making large areas unsafe for farming and human habitation.

Syria (Golan Heights)

**Deforestation and Desertification: **Israeli policies have restricted Syrian farmers’ access to their land, leading to soil degradation and loss of tree cover. The conversion of agricultural lands into Israeli military zones has resulted in mass deforestation.
Illegal Settler Agriculture: Israeli settlers exploit Syrian agricultural lands, redirecting water supplies for exclusive use in Israeli farms while Syrian farmers are denied access to irrigation.

2. Pollution of Water Sources and Deliberate Resource Theft

Palestine (Gaza & West Bank)

Water Apartheid in the West Bank: Israel diverts over 80% of Palestinian water resources for use by Israeli settlers, leaving Palestinian communities with severe water shortages. *** Destruction of Water Infrastructure in Gaza:** Israeli airstrikes have targeted Gaza’s water desalination plants, sewage treatment facilities, and wells, causing:
Toxic contamination of groundwater
Severe drinking water shortages (97% of Gaza’s water is undrinkable)
Widespread diseases due to waterborne pollution

Lebanon

Oil Spill Disaster from Israeli Strikes: In 2006, Israel bombed the Jiyyeh power plant, releasing 15,000 tons of oil into the Mediterranean Sea, devastating marine life and fisheries along Lebanon’s coast.
Targeting of Dams and Water Networks: Israeli airstrikes have damaged water infrastructure, reducing Lebanon’s access to clean water and irrigation.

Syria (Golan Heights)

Theft of Water Resources: Israel has diverted water from the Banias and Dan rivers, which are crucial for Syrian agriculture, while settlers receive privileged access.
**Water Pollution from Military Activity: **Israeli military zones in the Golan Heights have led to **chemical runoff and contamination of soil and water sources, **harming local wildlife and agriculture.

3. Air, Soil, and Chemical Contamination from Military Weapons

Phosphorus Gas and Toxic Bombardment

Israel’s use of white phosphorus munitions in Gaza and Lebanon has led to:

*Soil contamination, making agricultural land infertile *Airborne toxic chemicals, affecting human and animal health *Acid rain formation**, further degrading water and land quality

Long-Term Effects on Ecosystems

**Destruction of Pollinators (Bees, Birds, and Wildlife): **Bombings and deforestation have wiped out bee populations and migratory birds, disrupting natural pollination cycles and food production.
Collapse of Marine Ecosystems: The Mediterranean coast has suffered massive fish die-offs due to oil spills, phosphorus contamination, and destruction of wastewater treatment plants.

4. The Definition of Ecocide: How Israel’s Actions Qualify

Under international law, ecocide is defined as:

“Unlawful or wanton acts committed with the knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and widespread damage to the environment.”*

Israel’s military operations and policies in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria meet this definition because:

They systematically destroy natural ecosystems through bombings, land seizures, and resource theft.
They disproportionately target environmental infrastructure (water plants, farmlands, forests).
They cause long-term harm to biodiversity, food security, and climate resilience.

Holding Israel Accountable for Ecocide

The destruction of Palestinian, Lebanese, and Syrian ecosystems is not merely collateral damage but a calculated strategy of environmental warfare. By depriving communities of their lands, water, and clean air, Israel’s actions have devastating consequences for both human populations and the planet.

Call to Action:

*** International organizations and environmental watchdogs must document and prosecute ecocide crimes in conflict zones.

Palestinian, Lebanese, and Syrian communities deserve restoration efforts and reparations for environmental destruction.
Global awareness and legal frameworks must be strengthened to prevent the weaponization of nature in warfare. **