Israel has been accused of using white phosphorus munitions in southern Lebanon during its ongoing military operations. The allegations have been made by Prime Minister Najib Mikati of Lebanon’s caretaker government, who has stated that the use of this highly controversial weapon by Israel is one aspect of the growing conflict between them and Hezbollah.
Lebanon’s former PM accuses Israel Of deploying white phosphorus In Southern Lebanon during their on-going war. White phosphorus is infamous for its deadly effects- causing deep burns on skin and organs– when used in civilian areas.
There are also reports from Human Rights Watch (HRW) that Israeli troops were witnessed using white phosphorous. “We have verified video footage showing multiple attacks in Gaza and Lebanon using white phosphorus,” said Lama Fakih, the director for Middle East and North Africa at HRW. “This is a violation of the laws of war and raises significant humanitarian concerns.”
However, according to Israeli army (IDF), these accusations are false because they operate within international law as their purpose is to light up targets not civilians or put out smoke screens rather than kill innocent people.
The hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah have flared significantly resulting in numerous fire exchanges across the border separating Lebanon from Israel. Both sides lost some soldiers raising fears that it can deteriorate into full-scale war.
Hezbollah has warned that there will be brutal reprisals if attacked by Israelis again. “We have made all necessary arrangements to protect our country against any aggression by Israel,” an official statement from the group reads. This follows several weeks with high tension between Israel and Hamas over Gaza thus further complicating dynamics in an already volatile area.
White phosphorous use must be avoided but global bodies such as United Nations must investigate these allegations fully while urging for restraint on both parties’ side so that no more casualties occur due to it escalating any further.
Meanwhile, civilians are suffering most from this situation on both sides of the border. Many residents in southern Lebanon have been forced to flee their homes because of ongoing bombing and shelling. “We are constantly living in fear,” said a Lebanese resident. “We just want peace and safety for our families.”
As this situation unfolds, there is an increasing demand for ceasefire and diplomatic intervention. The global community has called on Israel and Hezbollah to avoid war and find amicable solutions to their disputes.
