Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of illegally using white phosphorus in a residential area in southern Lebanon last week, warning of potentially fatal consequences for civilians.
In a report released Monday, HRW said it verified seven recordings linked to the attack. White phosphorus ignites on contact with oxygen, burning until fully consumed, and can cause severe injuries or death.
Ramzi Kaiss, HRW’s Lebanon researcher, said: “The Israeli military’s unlawful use of white phosphorus over residential areas is extremely alarming and will have dire consequences for civilians.”
Although the Israel Defence Forces have yet to comment, HRW noted that warnings were issued on March 3 for civilians to stay 1,000 meters away. It remains unclear if any residents were directly affected.
Under international law, using phosphorus-based weapons in civilian areas is prohibited due to the risk of civilian harm.
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