As recently as May 30, the Israeli military reportedly fired white phosphorus as its forces advanced into southern Lebanon and took over the medieval castle of Beaufort.
In the nearby city of Nabatieh, with around 40,000 inhabitants, smoke from the self-igniting substance was then visible, according to The New York Times, which, with the help of experts and collected images and video material, verified the incident.
White phosphorus has also been reported to have been used around Tyre, al-Qlayaa, Khiam and Yohmor. Israel denies that the ammunition was used illegally.
White phosphorus is toxic and ignites violently. In combat, it can be used to create fires and smoke screens. It is not classified as a chemical weapon, but its use is prohibited in areas where civilians are present under the Geneva Conventions.
Israel has been repeatedly accused of using white phosphorus illegally in both Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, including by Human Rights Watch.
“It can cause death or painful injuries that lead to lifelong suffering,” said Human Rights Watch’s Lebanon analyst, Ramzi Kaiss in a report.
