Israel accused of spraying cancer-linked herbicide on farms in southern Lebanon

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Damien Gayle and William ChristouFebruary 5, 2026 at 06:58 PM

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Lebanon has accused Israel of spraying farmland in southern Lebanon with glyphosate, a herbicide classified as "probably carcinogenic" by the WHO. The incident allegedly occurred on Sunday, with UN peacekeepers reportedly warned of an aerial operation involving a "non-toxic chemical substance." Lebanese authorities claim laboratory analysis revealed glyphosate concentrations significantly higher than normal, posing risks to food security, agriculture, and the environment. Lebanese President Aoun condemned the act as a violation of sovereignty and vowed legal action. Israel has not responded to requests for comment. The incident follows reports of similar spraying in agricultural areas inside Syria.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Syria 40% UN 40% Gaza 40% West Bank 40% Joseph Aoun 50% World Health Organization 50% Glyphosate ×370% Lebanon ×590% Israel ×490%

Keywords

herbicide spraying 90% glyphosate 80% food security 70% environmental crime 60% agricultural areas 60% farmers' livelihoods 50% health risks 50% ecological balance 50% soil fertility 50% ecocide 40%