Rights Group Accuses Israel of Using White Phosphorus in Southern Lebanon

A leading human rights organisation has accused Israel of using the controversial incendiary weapon white phosphorus during military operations in southern Lebanon, raising fresh concerns about possible violations of international humanitarian law.

The allegation was made on Monday by Human Rights Watch (HRW), which said the Israeli military “unlawfully” fired artillery shells containing white phosphorus over residential areas of the Lebanese town of Yohmor on March 3.

According to the New York–based rights group, researchers verified and geolocated seven images showing white phosphorus munitions exploding in the air over a residential neighbourhood, with local civil defence teams responding to fires in at least two homes and a vehicle in the affected area.

Concerns Over Use in Civilian Areas

HRW said the use of white phosphorus in populated areas is considered unlawful because of the severe risk it poses to civilians. The chemical ignites on contact with oxygen, producing intense heat and thick smoke capable of causing deep burns, fires and long-lasting environmental damage.

While white phosphorus can be legally used by militaries for purposes such as creating smoke screens or marking targets, international humanitarian law restricts its use near civilian populations because of its indiscriminate effects.

Human Rights Watch said the alleged strike in Yohmor occurred shortly after the Israeli military had issued evacuation warnings in parts of southern Lebanon. However, the organisation noted that it could not confirm whether civilians were still present in the area at the time of the attack.

Israeli Military Response

The Israeli military has not immediately commented on the latest report. In previous conflicts, however, Israel has maintained that when it uses white phosphorus, it is only for smoke-screening or signalling purposes and not deliberately against civilians.

Escalating Border Tensions

The accusation comes amid escalating hostilities between Israeli forces and the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah along the Israel–Lebanon border. The cross-border violence has intensified in recent weeks as the wider regional conflict involving Iran and the United States continues to reshape the security landscape of the Middle East.

International observers warn that the situation in southern Lebanon could become a major flashpoint if hostilities continue to intensify. The United Nations and several humanitarian organisations have repeatedly called on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect civilians in conflict zones.

Human rights groups have also previously documented alleged use of white phosphorus in multiple municipalities across southern Lebanon during earlier stages of the Israel–Hezbollah confrontation, highlighting the potential humanitarian and environmental consequences of such weapons.

As the conflict continues, the latest allegations are likely to intensify international scrutiny over the conduct of military operations in the region.