Unmasking Israel’s Alleged Use of White Phosphorus in Lebanon: A Provocative Escalation

Israeli Army Accused of Using White Phosphorus in Lebanon, Amnesty International Reports

Introduction

Amnesty International has accused the Israeli army of firing artillery shells containing white phosphorus in military operations along Lebanon‘s southern border between October 10 and 16, 2023. The human rights organization claims that one attack on the town of Dhayra on October 16 should be investigated as a war crime, as it was allegedly an indiscriminate attack that injured civilians and damaged civilian objects.

The escalating cross-border hostilities between Israel and Lebanon have resulted in casualties on both sides, with the Israeli army claiming that Hezbollah and other armed groups have fired rockets into northern Israel, causing the death of six Israeli soldiers and one Israeli civilian. Amnesty International is also investigating potential violations of international humanitarian law by Hezbollah and other armed groups.

White Phosphorus: A Restricted Incendiary Weapon

White phosphorus is an incendiary substance primarily used to create a dense smoke screen or mark targets. However, its usage is restricted under international humanitarian law. While there can be lawful uses, it must never be fired at or near populated civilian areas or civilian infrastructure due to the high likelihood that fires and smoke it causes will spread. This makes such attacks indiscriminate and therefore prohibited.

Furthermore, the use of white phosphorus can result in severe physical harm to individuals, including respiratory damage, organ failure, and life-changing injuries such as burns that are difficult to treat. Burns affecting even just 10 percent of the body can be fatal.

Allegations of Israeli Army’s Use of White Phosphorus

Amnesty International’s Crisis Evidence Lab has reviewed a body of evidence indicating that the Israeli army used white phosphorus smoke artillery shells in an attack on the town of Dhayra. Researchers verified videos and photos showing the use of white phosphorus in Dhayra and two other incidents in the towns of al-Mari and Aita al-Chaab between October 10 and 16.

The evidence includes interviews with the Mayor of Dhayra, a resident of Dhayra, a first responder, and an emergency doctor at the hospital that received the injured civilians. Additionally, there is video footage showing artillery-dispersed smoke plumes consistent with white phosphorus munitions and a video of a crusted-over white phosphorus felt wedge reigniting in a resident’s backyard.

Amnesty International has also verified videos showing the shelling of Aita al-Chaab and al-Mari. The evidence suggests the use of white phosphorus in these areas as well.

Unlawful Use of White Phosphorus and Indiscriminate Attacks

Under international humanitarian law, parties to a conflict must always distinguish between civilians and civilian objects, and fighters and military objectives. Indiscriminate attacks, which fail to differentiate as required, are prohibited and considered war crimes.

Amnesty International argues that the use of white phosphorus in Dhayra was indiscriminate and therefore unlawful. The attack injured civilians and damaged civilian objects, violating the principle of distinction and the prohibition on indiscriminate attacks.

Investigation and Accountability

Amnesty International calls for an immediate investigation into the attack on Dhayra as a war crime. The organization emphasizes the need for accountability and justice for the victims. The Israeli army has been urged to halt the use of white phosphorus, especially in populated areas, and abide by its 2013 pledge to stop using these weapons.

International Law and Restricted Use of White Phosphorus

White phosphorus is categorized as an incendiary weapon, rather than a chemical weapon, and its use is governed by Protocol III of the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW). Although Lebanon has acceded to the protocol, Israel has not.

Protocol III prohibits the use of airdropped incendiary weapons in concentrations of civilians and places restrictions on the use of ground-launched incendiary weapons in civilian-populated areas. It defines incendiary weapons as those primarily designed to set fires and burn people, excluding other uses such as smokescreens.

Background and Escalating Conflict

The cross-border hostilities between Israel and Lebanon escalated following attacks in southern Israel by Hamas and other armed groups on October 7, 2023. The Israeli forces responded with air and ground strikes on the Gaza Strip, resulting in significant death and destruction.

Amnesty International previously documented the use of white phosphorus artillery shells by the Israeli army in densely populated civilian areas in Gaza, suggesting potential indiscriminate attacks and violations of international humanitarian law. Israeli authorities, however, denied the use of white phosphorus in their military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides and caused the displacement of thousands of residents in southern Lebanon. Israeli authorities announced the evacuation of towns along the border with Lebanon, affecting around 60,000 residents.

Conclusion and Call for Restraint

The use of white phosphorus in Lebanon is a disturbing violation of international humanitarian law and a cause for serious concern. The alleged indiscriminate attacks resulting in civilian casualties and damage to civilian objects must be thoroughly investigated, holding those responsible accountable.

Both Israel and Hezbollah should exercise restraint and abide by their obligations under international law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. The use of any weapons that lead to indiscriminate harm should be unequivocally condemned.

In the broader context, it is crucial for all actors involved in conflicts to prioritize the protection of civilian lives, adhere to international humanitarian law, and seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue and negotiations. Only by doing so can the cycle of violence and suffering be broken.

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