A recent report by a global human rights group has alleged that Israel has deployed white phosphorus incendiary shells on residential buildings in several towns and villages in conflict-ridden southern Lebanon. The use of white phosphorus in populated areas raises concerns about potential harm to civilians and possible violations of international law.
According to the report, there have been no documented cases of burn injuries caused by white phosphorus in Lebanon. However, there are accounts suggesting potential respiratory damage among the affected population. Human rights advocates emphasize that firing such controversial munitions into civilian areas constitutes a crime under international law.
Israel has defended its use of white phosphorus, stating that it is employed solely as a smokescreen and not as a direct weapon against civilians. White phosphorus is known for its ability to ignite fires and cause severe burns, posing significant risks to individuals exposed to it.
The report includes testimonies from residents of conflict-affected areas in southern Lebanon, along with verified images showing white phosphorus shells striking residential buildings in multiple towns and villages. The Lebanese Health Ministry has reported that at least 173 individuals have required medical treatment following exposure to white phosphorus.
The use of white phosphorus in residential areas has been documented in towns such as Kfar Kila, Mays al-Jabal, Boustan, Markaba, and Aita al-Shaab, which have been heavily impacted by months of fighting. International human rights organizations have also accused Israel of deploying white phosphorus in residential zones in October 2023, during clashes with Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border.
Human Rights Watch has called on the Lebanese government to allow the International Criminal Court to investigate and prosecute alleged international crimes committed in Lebanon since October 2023. The organization stresses the urgency of addressing Israel's recent use of white phosphorus in Lebanon and urges other countries to take action on this matter.
Since the onset of the conflict, over 400 individuals have lost their lives in Lebanon, with the majority being fighters and a significant number of civilians. In Israel, casualties include 15 soldiers and 10 civilians. The ongoing violence has led to the displacement of tens of thousands of people on both sides of the border.
