Arabic version: مناصرة السلاحف في لبنان مونا خليل تتوفى بعد الهجوم

Lebanese marine ecologist Mona Khalil has died after being severely wounded in an Israeli strike on her home near Tyre. Khalil, 77, succumbed to her wounds on Friday, the same day Israel escalated air attacks on southern Lebanon, killing at least 50 people and injuring dozens despite the risk posed to a fragile peace deal between Iran and the United States. According to Al Jazeera, the attacks raised concerns over the fragile peace deal between Iran and the United States.

Environmental group Live Love Tyre expressed their sorrow in a Facebook post, stating, “It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Mona Khalil today. She will be remembered through an incredible legacy.” Khalil dedicated her life to the protection of endangered sea turtles along Lebanon’s southern coast, focusing on the nesting sites of loggerhead and green sea turtles.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1949, Khalil’s passion for marine conservation began in 1999 after a chance encounter with a turtle on al-Mansouri beach. Over the years, she established significant initiatives, including the Orange House eco-tourism project and efforts to document marine life in the region. Khalil’s work has been vital as both turtle species face threats from coastal development and pollution.

Fadia Joumaa, a journalist and volunteer who worked closely with Khalil, shared a heartfelt tribute, stating, “You have left us yet you remain within us – we, your children.” Joumaa emphasized that Khalil’s death is a profound loss for Lebanon, highlighting her unwavering commitment to the wildlife she cherished.