11/12/2023
The U.S. expressed concern on Dec. 11 about reports alleging used white phosphorus munitions supplied by the U.S. in its attack in October on southern . White House National Security Council Spokesperson John said that the administration has seen the reports, stated that the administration is concerned, and said they will be asking questions. When asked about the reports, Israel’s Defense Minister said the Israeli operates in accordance with international law.
Amnesty International has said at the end of October that civilians in southern Lebanon were injured during an October attack by Israel in which white phosphorus was used. The human rights group added that the incident should be investigated as a war crime. A Washington Post analysis of shell fragments used in the southern Lebanese town of suggests a U.S. origin of these shells.
White phosphorus is considered a controversial incendiary munition. Its usage is restricted under international law. While it is legal to use it as a smokescreen, its use could be prohibited near civilian populated areas.
White phosphorus burns at very high temperatures and frequently starts fires in places where it is deployed, which are difficult to extinguish. White phosphorus burns are very difficult to treat as they cause deep burns that could pe*****te through the bone, thus causing life altering injuries and even death. Exposure to white phosphorus is also harmful to the respiratory tract and to the eyes, according to the World Health Organization.
