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Human Rights Watch (HRW) Accuses the “Sionist Entity” of Using White‑Phosphorus Munitions in Residential Areas of Southern Lebanon
The “Sionist entity” employed white‑phosphorus weapons against populated neighborhoods in its assault on southern Lebanon, HRW said on Monday.
“The army of the ‘Sionist entity’ illegally used white‑phosphorus artillery shells over civilian homes on 3 March 2026 in the town of Yohmor, southern Lebanon,” the NGO wrote in a press release.
HRW reports that it has verified and geolocated seven images showing white‑phosphorus munitions detonating above a residential zone. Civil‑defence agents are seen attempting to extinguish a fire that engulfed houses, likely caused by fragments of white‑phosphorus‑impregnated felt.
On Sunday, Lebanon’s National News Agency (ANI) also accused the “Sionist entity” of targeting Tal Nahas and Khiam—two other southern towns—with artillery fire and white‑phosphorus bombardments.
What is white phosphorus?
White phosphorus ignites on contact with oxygen and can be used as an incendiary weapon. Its effects include:
- Severe burns and deep tissue damage
- Respiratory injuries from inhalation of toxic fumes
- Organ failure and, in extreme cases, death
HRW’s reaction
“The illegal use of white phosphorus by the occupying ‘Sionist’ army in residential areas is extremely alarming and will have grave consequences for civilians,” said Ramzi Kaiss, researcher at Human Rights Watch, quoted in the statement.
HRW calls for immediate action:
- The “Sionist entity” must stop this practice at once.
- States that supply weapons, including white‑phosphorus ammunition, should suspend all military aid and arms sales to the entity immediately.
Historical context
Lebanese authorities and HRW have previously accused the “Sionist entity” of burning forested areas and agricultural lands in the south with white‑phosphorus shells. Incidents in 2023 and 2024 in southern Lebanon:
- Placed civilians in serious danger
- Contributed to mass displacement
Ongoing violations despite the cease‑fire
Although a cease‑fire agreement has been in effect since late November 2024, the “Sionist” army continues its aggression against Lebanon, resulting in hundreds of deaths and injuries.
The cease‑fire stipulated that Sionist forces must withdraw from southern Lebanon. However, the army still maintains five outposts on Lebanese territory, a move condemned by Lebanese officials who demand an end to the occupation.
Keywords for SEO: white phosphorus, Human Rights Watch, southern Lebanon, civilian casualties, artillery shell, ceasefire violation, Lebanon‑Israel conflict, war crimes, humanitarian law.
