Experts have warned that ongoing wars in the Middle East are significantly impacting air quality by introducing pollutants arising from military conflicts.
Over several decades, the Middle East has been plagued by conflicts that have dramatically affected the region's air quality. Currently, the war in Gaza continues, while a new conflict has erupted in Iran, compounding the already critical situation. Experts note that military operations lead to a sudden and intense rise in pollutants, including smoke, black carbon, and fine particulate matter like PM10 and PM2.5, which have serious implications for public health and the environment.
The destruction caused by warfare, including the burning of buildings, warehouses, and military equipment, releases harmful gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds into the air. Additionally, the extensive burning of oil and fuel during conflicts substantially increases particulate matter and black carbon levels, further degrading air quality, particularly in conflict zones. This alarming trend raises concerns not only about immediate impacts on air health but also about long-term environmental consequences that might affect future generations.
Experts point to decades of conflict that have formed a grim pattern regarding air pollution in the region. Several studies, including one examining air quality in Mosul, Iraq, have documented the negative repercussions of warfare on air composition, underscoring an urgent need for international attention and action to alleviate these environmental and humanitarian crises.
