UPDATE: Mojtaba Khamenei appointed Supreme Leader, new strikes in Iran, Israel, Lebanon and across the Gulf
HRW claims Israeli forces deployed white phosphorus over residential areas in southern Lebanon, escalating concerns over civilian safety.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned Israel for allegedly using white phosphorus munitions in a populated area of southern Lebanon, describing the act as both illegal and deeply concerning for the safety of civilians. The accusations, made public on Monday, point to a military strike on March 3, 2026, during a resurgence of hostilities between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah.
Alleged Attack in Southern Lebanon
According to HRW, Israeli artillery fired white phosphorus munitions over the town of Yohmor, located in southern Lebanon, igniting fires in residential areas. The organization claims to have verified seven images showing the weapons exploding above homes, with Civil Defense teams later intervening to extinguish fires caused by debris likely impregnated with the substance. White phosphorus is notorious for its incendiary properties, capable of starting fires that burn fiercely and can cause severe burns, respiratory damage, and even death.
“The illegal use of white phosphorus by the Israeli military on residential areas is extremely alarming and will have serious consequences for civilians,” said Ramzi Kaiss, a researcher at HRW. “Israel should immediately stop this practice, and states that supply weapons, including white phosphorus munitions, should immediately suspend military aid and arms sales to that country.”
The use of white phosphorus is controversial due to its potential to cause severe harm to civilians. While it is sometimes employed for smoke screens and battlefield illumination, its deployment in populated areas is widely regarded as illegal under international law.
Previous Incidents and Growing Concerns
This recent incident in Yohmor is not the first time Israel has been accused of using white phosphorus in Lebanon. HRW has previously documented the use of the substance in southern Lebanon in 2023 and 2024, where it was allegedly deployed to target forested and agricultural lands, endangering civilian populations and contributing to their displacement.
These recurring accusations add to growing concerns over the conduct of hostilities in the region, with HRW warning that such practices further endanger already vulnerable populations. The organization has called for an immediate halt to the use of white phosphorus and other incendiary munitions, urging the international community to reconsider military aid to Israel.
As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the humanitarian consequences of these weapons remain a critical point of international scrutiny.
Analysis and Perspective:
This report highlights significant developments in the international landscape that could reshape diplomatic relations in the coming weeks.
As the situation continues to evolve, analysts are closely watching for further developments.
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Source: This article was originally published in another language by International : Toute l’actualité sur Le Monde.fr. and has been translated and adapted for our global English-speaking audience. Read the original article here.