Pakistan, Aug. 13 -- Israeli forces are accused of deliberately starting wildfires in southern Lebanon, according to local residents, firefighters and environmental organisations.

Lebanese firefighters and aid workers said fires have damaged forests and agricultural areas near the country's southern border.

Read more: Israel strikes southern Lebanon after warning

According to Civil Defence officials, firefighters responding to a blaze near Khiam on Tuesday were forced to withdraw following an Israeli drone attack.

Lebanese authorities estimated that fires have affected between 30 and 40 per cent of land in some border areas.

Firefighters also alleged that Israeli forces have continued targeting olive groves and agricultural land sinc...