Israel's Use of White Phosphorus in Southern Lebanon: A Controversial Tactic

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions in southern Lebanon during its recent military operations, raising concerns about potential violations of international law. Researchers from HRW verified and geolocated images showing the use of these munitions in residential areas of the town of Yohmor, coinciding with the early days of Israel's assault on Gaza. This has reignited debates over the legality and morality of using such weapons in civilian-populated regions.

The Guardian

White phosphorus is a chemical agent used in military operations for creating smoke screens, marking targets, and illuminating areas. However, its use in civilian areas is highly controversial due to the severe burns and toxic fumes it can produce. Ahmad Beydoun, an architect and researcher, documented nearly 250 instances of white phosphorus use by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon between October 2023 and November 2024, with a significant portion occurring in residential zones.

The Guardian

According to a report by the Lebanese non-profit Public Works Studio, the use of white phosphorus has devastated over 2,000 hectares (approximately 4,940 acres) of land in southern Lebanon, including significant forested areas. The report warns that remnants of white phosphorus can pose ongoing dangers to returning residents, as they may spontaneously combust when disturbed. Additionally, the accumulation of toxic substances in the soil could lead to long-term agricultural challenges, including reduced soil fertility and microbial diversity.

The Guardian

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not directly address HRW's claims regarding the illegal use of white phosphorus, suggesting that visual similarities between different types of smoke shells could lead to misinterpretations. Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, emphasized the country's efforts to minimize civilian casualties, stating that residents in southern Lebanon were advised to relocate northward to avoid harm.

The Guardian

Critics, including Beydoun, argue that the use of white phosphorus may serve a strategic purpose for the Israeli military, potentially aimed at creating a buffer zone by forcing civilians to evacuate. Beydoun noted that the military's rationale could be to clear areas of cover for Hezbollah militants, suggesting a tactical approach to warfare that raises ethical questions about the treatment of civilians.

The Guardian

While HRW and Public Works Studio provide substantial evidence of white phosphorus use, the IDF's responses highlight the complexities in verifying such claims. The ambiguity surrounding the visual identification of munitions complicates the discourse on legality and accountability in military operations.

The Guardian

• “I think the Israeli army’s thinking is that they use it to burn down fields for visibility, so that people or Hezbollah militants don’t hide under the trees,” — Ahmad Beydoun, Architect and PhD Researcher

The Guardian

• “We do everything we can to minimise civilian casualties,” — Danny Danon, Israel's Ambassador to the UN

The Guardian

The ongoing situation in southern Lebanon continues to evolve, with humanitarian and legal implications stemming from the use of white phosphorus in conflict zones.

The Guardian