Israel’s Use of White Phosphorus in Gaza: A Violation of Human Rights

**October 13, 2023**

Human Rights Watch, a prominent human rights watchdog group, has accused Israel‘s military of using white phosphorus munitions in recent days in Gaza and Lebanon. White phosphorus is a highly incendiary substance that can cause severe burns and is considered particularly dangerous for civilians due to its indiscriminate nature.

Videos recorded in Lebanon and Gaza on Tuesday and Wednesday seem to show airdropped white phosphorus artillery rounds, according to Human Rights Watch. This assessment was vehemently denied by Israeli officials, with a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stating that the accusation is “unequivocally false” and that they have not deployed such munitions.

**Violation of International Laws and Guidelines**

The use of white phosphorus in areas where it could harm civilians or via airdrop is prohibited by international human rights laws. The indiscriminate nature of white phosphorus makes it a significant concern when used in densely populated areas of Gaza, one of the most densely populated regions in the world.

While Israel has not signed or is bound by the United Nations convention on the use of white phosphorus, it stated in 2013 that it would no longer use white phosphorus except in limited circumstances, according to Human Rights Watch. However, the group claims that the recent munitions used in Gaza and Lebanon were airburst 155mm artillery projectiles, which can shower large areas with white phosphorus.

Human Rights Watch argues that the use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas of Gaza violates the requirement under international humanitarian law to take all feasible precautions to avoid civilian injury and loss of life.

**Verification and Witness Accounts**

NBC News, which did not have reporters present when the strikes occurred in Gaza and Lebanon, has not been able to independently verify Human Rights Watch’s claims. However, Human Rights Watch’s analysis was corroborated through two interviews with witnesses on the ground who described a distinctive garlic-like smell that is a signature of white phosphorus.

Amnesty International has also been conducting its own investigation into Israel‘s alleged use of white phosphorus and has verified that Israeli artillery forces striking Gaza are equipped with white phosphorus projectiles. Palestinian surgeon Sara Al Saqqa, who works at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, reported seeing injuries consistent with white phosphorus wounds.

**International Response and Concerns**

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has stated that it is looking into the claims. The allegations have raised significant concerns among human rights organizations and the international community, particularly considering the potential harm to civilians in densely populated areas.

**Editorial and Advice**

The use of white phosphorus in conflict zones has long been a subject of ethical debate. While international law does allow for certain uses of white phosphorus, such as creating smoke screens or generating light, its use in ways that can harm civilians is seen as a violation of international human rights laws.

It is crucial for Israel to address the allegations made by Human Rights Watch and provide transparent and verifiable explanations for the use or non-use of white phosphorus munitions. Additionally, independent investigations should be conducted to establish the facts and determine whether international human rights laws have been violated.

Furthermore, this incident underscores the importance of countries adhering to international agreements, such as the United Nations convention on the use of white phosphorus. Upholding these conventions helps safeguard civilian populations and ensures compliance with the principles of international humanitarian law.

In light of these allegations, it is imperative for the international community to closely monitor the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, and advocate for a careful investigation into the use of white phosphorus munitions. The protection of civilians and adherence to international human rights laws must be a top priority for all parties involved in conflicts.