Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported evidence of Israeli forces using white phosphorus in residential areas of southern Lebanon, labeling the actions a violation of international humanitarian law.
In a report released Monday (March 9), the rights group documented an attack on the village of Yohmor on March 3. The chemical incendiary reportedly struck a residential zone, setting two homes and a vehicle ablaze. HRW verified seven images and videos showing the use of 155mm artillery projectiles in the strike.
White phosphorus ignites upon contact with oxygen, causing severe, deep burns that can lead to lifelong suffering or death.
"The use of this weapon in crowded areas has dire consequences for civilians," said Ramzi Qais, HRW’s Lebanon researcher, describing the incident as "extremely worrying."
The report further notes that white phosphorus was used repeatedly in border villages between October 2023 and May 2024. HRW characterized these strikes as "unlawful and indiscriminate."
In response, HRW is calling on the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany to suspend arms sales to Israel and recommended targeted sanctions against officials involved.
Meanwhile, Lebanon's National News Agency reported extensive damage in Beirut’s southern suburbs following Israeli airstrikes on Monday. The ongoing crisis has claimed at least 394 lives and injured over 1,000 people.
