Israeli Military's Use of White Phosphorus in Gaza and Lebanon Endangers Civilians, Human Rights Groups Report

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel's military of using white phosphorus munitions in recent days in Gaza and Lebanon, a claim vehemently denied by Israeli officials. White phosphorus weapons can cause severe burns and are considered particularly dangerous for civilians due to their indiscriminate nature. Human Rights Watch's analysis was corroborated by witnesses on the ground who described a distinctive garlic-like smell, a signature of white phosphorus. Israel has not signed the United Nations convention on the use of white phosphorus, and human rights groups argue that its deployment in areas where it could harm civilians is prohibited by international law. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights is looking into the claims.