Scientists have warned about the severe health and environmental impacts of Israeli attacks on oil depots in and around Tehran, with potential long-lasting effects on water and food sources. The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a caution on Tuesday regarding toxic pollutants in the air following strikes on four oil storage facilities and an oil production transfer center that resulted in massive flames and thick, black clouds leading to black, oily rain. Residents in the city reported respiratory issues, dizziness, and burning sensations due to the black rain mixed with chemicals from burning oil.
According to WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier, the black rain and accompanying acidic rain pose a significant danger, especially to respiratory health. The UN health agency has received numerous reports of black rain post-attacks and supports Iran’s advice for people to stay indoors. The Iranian Red Crescent Society has warned about potential lung damage and skin burns from the rain.
Pollution expert Peter Ross emphasized the high toxicity of petroleum mixtures, including hazardous substances like benzene. The dispersion of toxic gases into the atmosphere can pose immediate risks to human health, potentially causing dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death. Reports of burning sensations in the eyes indicate the presence of sulfur and nitrogen oxides from the fires, raising concerns about long-term health effects and environmental contamination.
Ross highlighted the vulnerability of individuals downwind and downstream of the explosions, emphasizing threats to public health, drinking water safety, fisheries, and agriculture. Comparisons have been drawn to the Kuwaiti oil fires of 1991, where similar environmental and health issues arose. The UN is monitoring the release of toxic compounds into the air and underlines the humanitarian concerns raised by the strikes.
The Iranian government has condemned the attacks as environmental crimes and alleged chemical warfare. The Israel Defence Forces defended the strikes on fuel storage complexes, citing military necessity. Experts caution about the unknown effects of the explosion on the environment and human health, including potential chronic exposure risks. The Conflict and Environment Observatory has documented numerous incidents of environmental harm in the region, stemming from the ongoing conflict.
The environmental fallout from the war extends beyond Tehran, with incidents of marine pollution and environmental risks in multiple countries. The conflict has raised broader concerns about the impact on ecosystems and public health in the region.
