Iran's Department of Environment (DOE) has accused Israel of committing "environmental war crimes" during the 12-day war period. This was reported by The Jerusalem Post.
It is noted that attacks on oil depots, oil refineries, and protected areas have caused serious harm to human health, biodiversity, and the ecological balance of the region.
In a statement issued on July 13, the DOE condemned Israel's targeting of fuel depots and industrial infrastructure, calling it a "disastrous attack on the natural environment and biological diversity." The large-scale attacks have had long-term effects on Iran's air quality, water sources, and natural habitats.
During the 12-day war, several oil depots in western and southern Tehran were struck. As a result, massive fires broke out, filling the air with toxic smoke. According to reports, over 364,000 hectares of protected lands were damaged, and 12 reserves were burned down.
"The Zionist regime targeted two oil reserves near Tehran. We witnessed the burning of millions of kilograms of fuel, leading to the release of tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. For 12 days, there was not a single day of clean air in the capital," the department's statement said.
Reports also indicate damage to petrochemical facilities in the Rey, Kangān, and Bushehr regions. Air quality monitors recorded a sharp increase in toxic gases, soot, and other hazardous substances in the atmosphere. This has raised concerns among environmental scientists and health officials.
"This is not only a public health emergency but also an ecological disaster. These irresponsible actions have had long-term impacts on air quality, water resources, and the natural environment," the statement added.
The ministry has called on the UN Environment Programme, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and other regional and global organizations to take necessary measures to stop the recent destruction and prevent further environmental disasters.
