Israel’s Pine Forests Fuel Wildfires, Prompting Calls for Native Reforestation

Researchers conclude that decades of planting non-native pine forests in Israel have intensified wildfires. The practice—part of nation-building efforts—created dense, highly flammable areas instead of diverse ecosystems. Critics call it “green colonialism” because many plantations replaced depopulated Palestinian villages. Calls to reintroduce native oaks and olives are growing, as scientists note these species are less fire-prone. The debate illustrates how well-meaning reforestation projects can backfire if not aligned with local ecology.