Human rights organizations and The New York Times have reported documenting Israel’s use of white phosphorus near residential areas in Lebanon. White phosphorus is known as a dangerous substance that can cause severe burns, respiratory problems, and death.
The report states that Israel’s use of white phosphorus on May 30 in the Lebanese city of Nabatieh was confirmed through social media footage. The same investigation noted similar use near three other towns, including the area around the city of Sidon, since March.
What is white phosphorus?
White phosphorus is a waxy chemical that ignites instantly upon contact with oxygen. The Chemical Weapons Convention classifies it not as a chemical weapon but as an incendiary agent.
Although it can be used to create military smoke screens or mark targets, its use in densely populated areas is prohibited under international law. Human rights groups have accused Israel for years of using this substance in ways that endanger civilians.
Ramzi Kaiss from Human Rights Watch stated that white phosphorus can cause very severe injuries and lifelong damage. Amnesty International researcher Budour Hassan emphasized that the substance can reignite days or even weeks later.
Claims of use in Lebanon and Gaza
The report reminds that Nabatieh in southern Lebanon has a population of about 40,000. Human rights defenders also noted that white phosphorus has forced civilians near the border line to flee their homes, causing displacement.
Human Rights Watch confirmed that incendiary weapons were used over homes in southern Lebanon on March 3. The organization also stated that the Israeli army used this substance in the 2023 conflict with Hezbollah and in Gaza.
A previous investigation by the same organization revealed Israel’s use of white phosphorus in Gaza in 2009. Israel had pledged in 2013 to significantly reduce the use of this substance.
Conflict reignites
Tensions along the border between Israel and Hezbollah escalated again after Israel and the U.S. jointly attacked Iran at the end of February. In response, Hezbollah fired bullets and rockets at communities in northern Israel in early March, reigniting the conflict.
Lebanon and Israel reportedly agreed on a ceasefire on Wednesday, but Hezbollah rejected the agreement. Following the ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes continued, killing nine people, including three soldiers from the Lebanese army.
The Israeli army states that it uses white phosphorus in some artillery shells to create smoke screens. Israel denies allegations that the substance has been used unlawfully.
The report also recalls a previous news item suggesting that the white phosphorus used by Israel may have been supplied by the U.S., according to a 2023 report by The Washington Post.
