UNIFIL Reports Israeli Army Released Chemical Substance in South Lebanon, Raising Health Concerns

United Nations peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon (UNIFIL) have reported that the Israeli army released a chemical substance in parts of southern Lebanon, an action that the organization warned could threaten the health of civilians.

According to news sources, UNIFIL stated that the Israeli army informed its forces on Sunday morning of an air operation near the so-called “Blue Line” areas, advising them to evacuate those zones and remain in sheltered locations.

UNIFIL added that, in cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces, sampling of the released substances has begun to determine their toxicity. The organization emphasized that such an action violates UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and is unacceptable under international law.

UNIFIL further warned that the release of these substances could endanger the health of civilian residents and has raised concerns about locals returning to their homes in southern Lebanon.

Simultaneously, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health has stated that investigations into the nature of the substances and their potential effects on agricultural products in the southern regions of the country are ongoing.