A global human rights group has accused Israel of using white phosphorus incendiary shells on residential buildings in at least five towns and villages in conflict-hit southern Lebanon. This report, published Wednesday by Human Rights Watch (HRW), raises concerns about potential harm to civilians and violations of international law.
HRW’s report indicates that there is no evidence of burn injuries due to white phosphorus in Lebanon, but researchers have “heard accounts indicating possible respiratory damage.” White phosphorus, a chemical that ignites on contact with oxygen, can cause severe burns, set structures on fire, and lead to long-term health complications, including respiratory failure.
The report by HRW includes interviews with eight residents in southern Lebanon and verified images from almost 47 photos and videos showing white phosphorus shells landing on residential buildings in five border towns: Kfar Kila, Mays al-Jabal, Boustan, Markaba, and Aita al-Shaab. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that 173 people have required medical care following exposure to white phosphorus.
HRW researcher Ramzi Kaiss stated, “Israel’s use of airburst white phosphorus munitions in populated areas indiscriminately harms civilians and has led many to leave their homes.” He urged Israel to stop using these munitions in populated areas, citing the availability of less harmful alternatives.
The use of incendiary weapons on civilian populations is barred by Protocol III of the Convention on Conventional Weapons, to which Lebanon is a signatory. However, Israel is not a signatory to this protocol. The Israeli military has responded by asserting that it adheres to international law regarding munitions use, employing white phosphorus only as a smokescreen and not to target civilians. An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) statement noted that procedures require these shells not to be used in densely populated areas, with certain exceptions.
This is not the first time HRW has accused Israel of using white phosphorus. In October, shortly after the Israel-Hamas conflict began, the group alleged similar uses in Lebanon and Gaza. In response, the Israeli military has maintained that its use of white phosphorus complies with international standards, using it strictly for creating smokescreens.
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