Israel Accused of Using White Phosphorus in Lebanon Amid Escalating Conflict
Human rights organizations and media outlets have accused Israel of deploying white phosphorus munitions in southern Lebanon, a substance that can cause severe burns, respiratory damage, and death. The allegations come amid renewed clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, following a U.S.-Israel strike on Iran in late February 2026.
According to a report by The New York Times, Israel used white phosphorus in the Lebanese town of Nabatieh on May 30, 2026. The article cited verified social media videos and corroborated footage of the substance being deployed near Tyre and three other towns since March 2026. Human Rights Watch (HRW) also confirmed the use of incendiary weapons over homes in southern Lebanon on March 3, 2026, marking a resurgence of such tactics after a 2023 conflict with Hezbollah.
What Is White Phosphorus and Why Is It Controversial?
White phosphorus is a waxy, flammable chemical that ignites upon contact with oxygen. While not explicitly banned under international law, its use in populated areas is prohibited under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The CWC classifies white phosphorus as an incendiary agent, allowing its use for military purposes such as creating smoke screens or marking targets. However, its deployment in civilian zones risks indiscriminate harm.
HRW researcher Ramzi Kaiss stated that white phosphorus can cause “life-long injuries” or death, with projectiles potentially affecting areas up to 250 meters in diameter. Once on the ground, the substance adheres to skin and clothing, causing severe burns that can penetrate bones. Amnesty International’s Budour Hassan noted that