Israel unlawfully using white phosphorus in Lebanon: Rights watch
What's the story
The New York-based rights group Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions in residential areas of southern Lebanon earlier this month. The allegation is based on seven verified photographs showing the use of these incendiary weapons over Yohmor, a village in southern Lebanon. The unlawful use of white phosphorus over residential areas is "extremely alarming and will have dire consequences for civilians," said Ramzi Kaiss, Lebanon researcher at Human Rights Watch.
HRW
What HRW found
According to the report, the shape of the smoke cloud caused by the airbursts was consistent with the "knuckle" formed by the expelling and bursting charges of the M825-series 155mm artillery projectile, which contains white phosphorus. It also verified photos shared on Facebook by the Islamic Health Committee's civil defense squad in Yohmor, which showed workers fighting fires on rooftops and in a car.
Report
Israeli military's widespread use of white phosphorus
Given the close proximity of the sites to the region where airburst munitions were detected, the organization concluded the fire was most likely caused by felt wedges impregnated with white phosphorus. HRW said it previously documented the Israeli military's widespread use of white phosphorus between October 2023 and May 2024 across border villages in southern Lebanon.
Evidence and reaction
Israeli military yet to comment on specific incident
Kaiss emphasized that the incendiary effects of white phosphorus can cause death or cruel injuries that result in lifelong suffering. White phosphorus is a chemical compound dispersed in artillery rounds, explosives, and rockets that ignites when exposed to oxygen. The Israeli military has not officially commented on this specific incident but has previously stated that white phosphorus is used for creating smoke screens, not targeting civilians.
International appeal
HRW calls for suspension of military sales to Israel
HRW has called on Israel's allies, including the US, UK, and Germany, to suspend military sales to Israel and impose targeted sanctions on those involved in grave crimes. The organization also urged states supplying weapons to Israel to suspend military assistance until such practices are stopped. Meanwhile, over half a million people have been displaced in Lebanon due to forced displacement orders issued by Israel.
Escalating violence
Death toll in Lebanon rises to nearly 400
The report comes as Israel continues its military operations in southern Beirut, targeting Hezbollah positions. At least 394 people have been killed and over 1,000 injured. The Israeli military has also issued displacement orders for Lebanon's entire population south of Litani River, as well as all residents of Beirut's southern suburbs. The sweeping nature of the Israeli military's relocation orders raises concerns that their primary goal is not to safeguard people but rather to spread terror and panic, HRW stated.