Black rain in Iran after airstrikes; what are scientists saying
What's the story
Scientists fear that the Israeli attacks on oil facilities in and around Tehran might have serious repercussions on health and the environment, affecting water and food sources long after the smoke and black rain have cleared. The attacks targeted four oil storage facilities and an oil transfer center, creating large plumes of smoke and flames. Residents of the city complained of difficulty breathing, dizziness, and burning feelings as rain combined with chemicals from burning oil poured down from the sky.
Health risks
WHO warns of health risks from black rain
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning on Tuesday about harmful particles in the air after the Saturday hits triggered pillars of flames and thick, black clouds, later producing black, oily rain. Christian Lindmeier, a WHO spokesperson, said the black rain and the acidic rain coming with it are indeed a danger for the population, mainly respiratory. The Iranian Red Crescent Society has also warned of possible lung damage and chemical burns from this toxic precipitation.
Environmental impact
Health risks from petroleum products
Peter Ross, a pollution specialist at the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, warned that petroleum mixtures from the fires could contain thousands of toxic hydrocarbons. These gases pose an acute risk to human health and can lead to dizziness, unconsciousness, or even death. The potential carcinogenic compounds raise concerns about long-term health effects for residents as petroleum disperses into waterways and groundwater.
Legal concerns
Humanitarian law questioned by strikes
The strikes have also raised questions about humanitarian law, as the targeted sites don't appear to be used exclusively by the military. Iran's ambassador to the UN called the attacks a "manifest environmental crime," while Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused them of "intentional chemical warfare." The Israel Defense Forces claimed responsibility for targeting "fuel storage complexes" that allegedly support Iran's war effort.