Antalya:Environmental damage from Israeli attacks on Lebanon exceeded $512 million in 2023 and 2024, with further losses recorded in 2026, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced Thursday.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Salam addressed the COP31 UN climate summit in Türkiye's southern province of Antalya, highlighting that successive wars, coupled with years of economic crisis, have severely impacted Lebanon's infrastructure, agricultural lands, forests, and ecosystems.

Salam emphasized that the environmental consequences of these attacks will have long-term effects on ecosystems and the livelihoods of local communities. He asserted that Lebanon's recovery efforts must go beyond reconstructing damaged homes and roads to include farmland restoration, ecosystem rehabilitation, and livelihood revival.

He further insisted that environmental restoration and climate resilience should be integral to Lebanon's reconstruction strategy, alongside ensuring stability, restoring sovereignty, and respecting international law.

The COP31 summit, which commenced in Antalya on Monday and continues until November 20, gathers global leaders and negotiators to discuss climate financing, adaptation, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.