According to the New York Times, the Israeli army used white phosphorus, an incendiary substance potentially very dangerous for civilians, on populated areas of Lebanon during the conflict against Hezbollah. The American newspaper published a series of verified images and videos confirming the use of this substance near inhabited areas.
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The use of white phosphorus in Israeli operations
One of the latest testimonies dates back to May 30, in Nabatieh, where the characteristic smoke trails produced by this type of ammunition were observed in footage circulated on social media and verified by the Times, while Israeli forces were conquering Beaufort Castle, an important stronghold in the area. Other videos show the use of white phosphorus near the coastal city of Tyre and near three inhabited centers — Qlayaa, Khiam, and Yohmor — in the months following the resumption of clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
What is white phosphorus
White phosphorus is used in some types of ammunition to create dense smoke trails and cover operators during firefights or as a marker. It is a very dangerous substance because it ignites spontaneously on contact with air and is extremely difficult to extinguish. On contact with the skin, it causes deep burns and can cause severe damage to the eyes, respiratory tract, and internal organs if inhaled. Furthermore, when dispersed in the environment, it can cause fires and significant damage to forested areas and arable land.
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What international law says
The use of white phosphorus is not absolutely prohibited, but its use against civilians violates international laws of war. It is often used by armed forces to start fires and create smoke screens during combat, although its use in densely populated areas is considered illegal. When questioned by the Times, the Israeli army denied: «The IDF procedures stipulate that such projectiles should not be used in densely populated areas, with some exceptions. This is in accordance with the requirements of international law and even goes beyond what it prescribes», it stressed in a note. However, several observers have expressed concern about the danger arising from the frequent use of white phosphorus in Israeli operations in Lebanon.
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