Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused the United States and Israel of causing severe environmental damage during their military operations against Iran. He raised the issue on Wednesday while addressing the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye.
Pezeshkian argued that military attacks have released significant quantities of pollutants and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. He also called on the international community to establish accountability mechanisms for environmental destruction caused by armed conflicts.
Attacks Release Millions of Tonnes of Emissions
The Iranian president claimed that attacks on fuel facilities in southern Iran released approximately 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Additionally, strikes on fuel storage facilities near Tehran reportedly produced another one million tonnes of emissions.
According to Pezeshkian, these attacks have damaged natural resources and worsened environmental conditions across the region. However, independent verification of the specific emission figures remains unavailable.
He also highlighted damage to protected areas and environmental facilities, warning that military operations could threaten ecosystems and future generations.
Iran Demands International Accountability
Addressing world leaders, Pezeshkian urged international organisations to document environmental destruction resulting from military operations. He also proposed developing compensation mechanisms to hold responsible parties accountable.
The president argued that international climate commitments should extend beyond peacetime and address environmental responsibilities during wars. He said military aggression should not undermine global efforts to reduce emissions and protect natural resources.
Meanwhile, the conflict has affected energy infrastructure and shipping routes across the Middle East. Environmental concerns have also increased following reports of oil leaks and damage to facilities throughout the region.
The COP31 conference provides an international platform for discussing climate challenges, environmental protection and financial commitments. Pezeshkian used the gathering to demand greater attention to the ecological consequences of armed conflicts.
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