Lebanon’s wheat farmers have a new headache: a tiny bug called the sunn pest. With ongoing drought, labor shortages, and issues at the border, this pest has returned at the worst possible time—right in the middle of wheat season.

Little Bug, Massive Damage

Don’t be fooled by its size. The sunn pest can ruin up to 90% of a wheat harvest. It’s hitting hardest in the Beqaa Valley, Lebanon’s main wheat-growing area, and it’s spreading fast.

Bad Timing, Perfect Conditions

These bugs show up just as wheat reaches maturity—from early May to mid-June. And sadly, Lebanon’s hot, dry weather is giving them exactly what they need to thrive.

Recommended

Beirut Arab Book Fair Makes A Grand ReturnThis Story Shows How Deep The Lebanese Muslim-Christian Bond Goes!Animal Rights Activist Pushes Lebanon’s Agriculture Ministry To Act Against Animal Smuggling!

Farmers Ask for Help

Farmers are under pressure, facing dry weather, fewer resources, and now this pest. The Beqaa Farmers Association is calling on authorities to step in quickly before the damage gets worse.

Officials Step In

The Agriculture Minister said the government is monitoring things closely. Teams have already checked the area, and the pest is still somewhat under control. But spraying chemicals requires proof of a serious infestation because the pesticides are very strong.

Action Underway

Plans are in motion: pesticide shipments are on the way, the army is ready to help, and aerial spraying is in the works. But the heat is rising, and time is running out. For Beqaa farmers already battling tough conditions, the sunn pest could be a real threat to Lebanon’s wheat supply—and to the daily bread people rely on.