Syrian Coastal Fires in Latakia: Explosive Hazards Hamper Firefighting Efforts - Difficulties in extinguishing forest fires in Syria's Latakia coastal region due to the presence of mines.
In the war-torn nation of Syria, a new crisis is unfolding as forest fires continue to ravage the country, particularly in the coastal region of Latakia, Hama, and Idlib. These fires, exacerbated by the effects of global warming, are causing significant concerns for the local population and the environment.
The fires are spreading rapidly, driven by strong winds and the rugged, mountainous terrain that characterises the region. This combination makes it difficult for firefighting teams and heavy equipment to reach all fire epicentres effectively, and the presence of mines and unexploded munitions from the civil war further complicates matters. In some cases, helicopters have been deployed to help contain fires, as ground access is too risky.
The White Helmets, a volunteer civil defence organisation in Syria, are currently seeking tips from the public in the search for possible arsonists. The organisation has been working tirelessly to combat the fires and ensure the safety of civilians, many of whom have been evacuated from the most affected areas.
The recurring heatwaves, drought, and forest fires in Syria are a clear sign of global warming, occurring more frequently, lasting longer, and being more intense due to climate change. In June, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned that more than 16 million people in Syria are at risk of food insecurity due to unprecedented rainfall shortages. The ongoing forest fires are expected to further exacerbate this problem, as they destroy farmland and disrupt livelihoods.
Large parts of Europe have also been experiencing heatwaves and forest fires in recent days, adding to global concerns about the impacts of climate change. As the world grapples with these challenges, efforts to combat global warming and promote sustainable practices are more important than ever.
[1] Source: Al Jazeera, 2021 [2] Source: Middle East Eye, 2021 [5] Source: Syria Direct, 2021
- The EC countries, in light of the escalating climate-change-induced forest fires in Syria, are urged to intensify their cooperation policy on environmental science and climate change, as reported by Al Jazeera in 2021.
- Despite the ongoing political turmoil, the General News outlets are highlighting the significance of fostering a global cooperation policy focused on climate-change mitigation and environmental preservation, as demonstrated by the widespread fires in Europe.
- In the face of increasing crime and justice issues, such as arson contributing to the forest fires in Syria, it is imperative that all nations, including those involved in the climate-change discourse, prioritize cooperation policy and the exchange of science-based information to combat environmental threats, as advocated by Middle East Eye in 2021.
