Human Rights Watch Accuses Israel of Using White Phosphorus in Lebanon

HRW Raises Concerns Over Alleged White Phosphorus Use in Southern Lebanon

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has alleged that Israel used white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in southern Lebanon during recent military operations. The accusations come amid escalating tensions along the Israel–Lebanon border following renewed clashes involving the militant group Hezbollah. HRW warned that deploying such munitions in populated areas could endanger civilians and potentially violate international humanitarian law.

HRW Report on the Yohmor Incident

According to HRW, Israeli forces fired artillery shells containing white phosphorus above the town of Yohmor in southern Lebanon on March 3, 2026 . The organisation stated that it verified and geolocated images showing airburst white phosphorus munitions detonating over residential neighbourhoods .

The images reportedly also showed emergency responders and civil defence teams attempting to extinguish fires affecting houses and vehicles. These incidents indicate possible damage to civilian infrastructure and highlight the risks associated with the use of incendiary substances in populated areas.

Understanding White Phosphorus

White phosphorus is a highly reactive chemical substance that ignites instantly when exposed to oxygen. Militaries commonly use it to create smoke screens, illuminate battlefields, or mark targets during operations.

However, when employed as an incendiary weapon, it can cause severe thermal burns, respiratory injuries, organ damage and even death . Because the material burns intensely and spreads rapidly, its use in civilian areas remains highly controversial and is regulated by international humanitarian law governing armed conflict.

Escalating Israel–Lebanon Border Tensions

The allegations come amid increased hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Israeli forces have launched several waves of air strikes and ground operations targeting Hezbollah positions following cross-border attacks by the Iran-backed group.

Lebanese officials report that hundreds of people have been killed in the ongoing escalation, while more than 500,000 residents have reportedly been displaced from their homes due to the conflict.

International Response and Calls for Investigation

Human Rights Watch has urged Israel to immediately halt the use of white phosphorus in civilian areas . The organisation also called on countries supplying military equipment to Israel to review their defence support. Lebanese authorities have raised concerns about the humanitarian and environmental consequences of the military actions.

The allegations have intensified international scrutiny of the ongoing conflict and renewed debate over the protection of civilians in modern warfare .

Exam-Focused Points

• White phosphorus ignites when exposed to oxygen and produces dense smoke.

• The Chemical Weapons Convention does not classify white phosphorus as a chemical weapon .

• International humanitarian law restricts the use of incendiary weapons in civilian areas .

• The Litani River is an important geographical reference line in Israel–Lebanon security arrangements.

• Human Rights Watch is a global organisation that monitors and reports on human rights issues.