HRW Accuses Israel of Using White Phosphorus in Lebanon

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of illegally using white phosphorus munitions over homes in the southern Lebanese town of Yohmor on March 3, posing a threat to civilians. According to HRW's report released Monday, the use of such incendiary weapons in populated areas violates international humanitarian law.

The rights group said it had verified eight images showing white phosphorus used over residential parts of Yohmor and civil defense workers responding to fires in the area. Ramzi Kaiss, Lebanon researcher at HRW, stated that "The incendiary effects of white phosphorus can cause death or cruel injuries that result in lifelong suffering."

The Israeli military told Reuters it was unaware and could not confirm the use of shells containing white phosphorus in Lebanon. It added that it had not reviewed the same videos as HRW and could not comment on the claims. Lebanese authorities have not commented.

HRW's report comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with over 400 people killed and hundreds of thousands displaced due to Israeli strikes in Lebanon. The use of white phosphorus munitions is considered unlawful under Protocol III of the Convention on the Prohibition of Use of Certain Conventional Weapons when used against military targets located among civilians.

HRW urged Israel's key allies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, to suspend military sales to Israel and impose targeted sanctions on officials credibly implicated in grave crimes. The organization also called for an immediate halt to the use of white phosphorus munitions in residential areas.