What Visual Evidence Tells Us About Israel’s Use of White Phosphorus in Lebanon

Article excerpt

Videos obtained by The Times document Israeli military deployments of white phosphorus munitions over populated areas in Lebanon, raising questions about the legality and humanitarian impact of the weapons' use. White phosphorus, which creates a thick smoke screen when detonated, can cause severe burns and respiratory damage to civilians in densely populated zones. The visual evidence shows repeated instances of the munition being fired in contexts where international law restricts its use near civilian populations. Israeli officials have previously stated the munitions are used for smoke screens and illumination rather than as weapons, though their deployment over cities complicates those claims. The documentation adds to ongoing scrutiny of Israel's military conduct during the conflict with Lebanon.