HRW Confirms Israel Used White Phosphorus in Lebanese Residential Areas
ISTANBUL — Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that Israel unlawfully used white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in southern Lebanon earlier this month, in violation of international humanitarian law.
In a report released Monday, the New York-based rights group confirmed the authenticity of seven photographs showing white phosphorus fired over the village of Yohmor on March 3. The strikes sparked fires in at least two homes.
Ramzi Kaiss, HRW’s Lebanon researcher, said, “The Israeli military’s use of white phosphorus over residential areas is extremely alarming and poses serious risks for civilians.” He added that the chemical can cause death or severe injuries, leaving lifelong consequences for victims.
White Phosphorus and Its Impact
Airburst white phosphorus is indiscriminate in populated areas and fails to meet international humanitarian law standards, which require taking all feasible precautions to protect civilians. The substance ignites on contact with oxygen, potentially setting homes, agricultural land, and other civilian property on fire.
HRW found that in Yohmor, civilians were concentrated in areas targeted by the munitions, leading to property fires. The organisation verified photos from local media and the Islamic Health Committee’s civil defense team, showing workers extinguishing fires on rooftops and vehicles.
The report noted that the pattern of smoke and explosions matched the M825-series 155mm artillery projectiles containing white phosphorus.
Calls for Action
HRW urged Israel to immediately halt this practice. The organisation also called on countries supplying Israel with weapons, including white phosphorus, to suspend military aid and arms sales, and to pressure Israel to stop targeting residential areas.
More than 500,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon due to forced evacuation orders. Israel has carried out airstrikes across southern Beirut, including Ghobeiry, Haret Hreik, and Safir neighborhoods. The attacks have killed at least 394 people and injured over 1,000.
HRW further recommended that Israel’s allies, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, impose targeted sanctions on officials implicated in serious violations of international law.
The organisation also noted that Israel had previously used white phosphorus from October 2023 to May 2024 in southern Lebanon, putting civilians at severe risk.
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