Los Angeles: Actor Mel Gibson has sparked controversy by flirting with conspiracy theories over raging Los Angeles wildfires that have destroyed thousands of structures, leaving untold numbers of people without homes, and killed at least 24 people.

According to Anadolu Agency, Gibson, a former Hollywood A-lister whose star later dimmed due to controversial remarks, told Fox News in a weekend interview that he found it "convenient" that there was inadequate water pressure, which left some firefighters unable to extinguish the blazes. Officials have explained that the simultaneous demand from multiple fires led to the depletion of water reserves.

The actor, whose $14.5 million home was among those lost in the fires, further speculated about the possibility of arson, suggesting that the fires could have been started intentionally. He questioned whether these potential arsonists were "commissioned" or acting independently, expressing his suspicion that the fires might have been set "on purpose."

Gibson further mused about the motives behind such actions, pondering, "What could it be? You know, what do they want? The state (of California) empty? I don't know."

Authorities have attributed the massive fires to several factors, including unusually dry seasons, hurricane-force Santa Ana winds, and the broader impacts of global warming, which have exacerbated the conditions for such devastating wildfires.

Gibson's comments come in the wake of a history of controversy, beginning in 2006 with criticism over antisemitic and racist remarks, as well as alleged antisemitic tropes in his film "The Passion of the Christ." Despite apologizing and denying any prejudice, these controversies significantly affected his standing in Hollywood.

For the past seven days, the wildfires have been raging across Los Angeles and surrounding areas, claiming 24 lives thus far as firefighters battle against the fierce flames, exacerbated by dry winds and extreme temperatures.