Experts warn that Israeli airstrikes on oil depots in and near Tehran could have severe health and environmental impacts, affecting water and food sources long after the incidents.
The World Health Organization (WHO) raised concerns on Tuesday regarding toxic pollutants in the air following the attacks on four oil storage facilities and an oil production transfer center that generated massive flames and thick, black clouds leading to black, oily rain.
Residents in the 10 million-strong city reported respiratory issues, dizziness, and burning sensations as the rain, mixed with chemicals from burning oil, descended from the sky.
WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier addressed the media in Geneva, highlighting the respiratory risks posed by the black rain and accompanying acidic precipitation.
Andrew Chang explains how burning oil from depots hit by U.S.-Israeli airstrikes is falling as black rain over parts of Iran, and the danger it poses.
Images provided by The Canadian Press, Reuters and Getty Images
Following the attacks, the UN health agency received numerous reports of black rain and endorsed Iran’s recommendation for people to stay indoors to avoid health risks.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society cautioned that the rain could lead to severe lung damage and skin burns.
‘Very, very toxic’
Pollution expert Peter Ross from the Raincoast Conservation Foundation in Sidney, B.C., emphasized the potential dangers of petroleum mixtures, containing highly toxic substances like benzene.
Ross warned of possible long-term consequences from inhaling toxic gases during fires, which can cause dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death.
Reports of eye irritation indicate the potential presence of sulfur and nitrogen oxides in the air, known for causing acid rain in past decades.
Concerns arise over the carcinogenic nature of various compounds, suggesting possible long-term health implications as petroleum contaminates water bodies.
Individuals in the