Israel Faces Accusations Over White Phosphorus Use in Lebanon Conflict

A human rights group accused Israel of using white phosphorus shells on residential buildings in southern Lebanon, potentially harming civilians and violating international law. The Israeli military denies targeting civilians, stating the chemical is used only as a smokescreen. HRW has verified reports of the substance landing in populated areas.

A global human rights group has leveled serious allegations against Israel, accusing it of deploying white phosphorus incendiary shells on residential buildings across five towns and villages in southern Lebanon. This use potentially jeopardizes civilian lives and breaches international law, according to a report released on Wednesday.

In its findings, Human Rights Watch (HRW) noted the absence of burn injuries directly linked to white phosphorus in Lebanon. However, researchers have encountered testimonies suggesting possible respiratory damage among residents. The deployment of such controversial munitions in populated areas is regarded as a crime under international law.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) maintained that their usage of white phosphorus adheres to international law, employing it solely as a smokescreen rather than a weapon against civilians. The IDF emphasized adherence to strict protocols, ensuring these munitions are not used in densely populated regions, except in particular circumstances.

HRW's report is substantiated by interviews with eight local residents and corroborated by nearly 47 photos and videos showing white phosphorus shells impacting civilian structures in towns like Kfar Kila and Mays al-Jabal. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that at least 173 individuals required medical attention following exposure to the incendiary substance.

The controversy intensified as HRW, alongside Amnesty International, reiterated accusations against Israel for similar actions in October 2023, shortly after the Israel-Hamas war erupted. HRW urges the Lebanese government to permit the International Criminal Court to investigate and potentially prosecute these alleged grave international crimes.

The ongoing conflict has already resulted in over 400 deaths in Lebanon, including more than 70 civilians. Israel has reported the deaths of 15 soldiers and 10 civilians, with tens of thousands displaced on both sides of the border.