Israel Accused of Using U.S.-Supplied White Phosphorus Munitions in Lebanon Attack

In a recent report by The Washington Post, it has been alleged that Israel utilized white phosphorus munitions, which were supplied by the United States, in an attack that took place in southern Lebanon in October. This attack resulted in the injury of at least nine civilians, according to the report.

The allegation comes as a shock, as the use of white phosphorus munitions is highly controversial and has been widely condemned by the international community. These munitions are known to cause severe burns and are particularly dangerous when used in populated areas, as they can indiscriminately harm civilians.

The Washington Post report provides a detailed account of the incident, citing eyewitness testimonies and photographic evidence. The images depict injured civilians with burns consistent with those caused by white phosphorus. The article also mentions that the United States has previously supplied Israel with these munitions, raising questions about the involvement of the U.S. in this alleged attack.

The use of white phosphorus munitions has been the subject of scrutiny in the past. In 2009, Israel faced similar accusations during its military operation in Gaza. The Israeli government defended its use of these munitions, stating that they were employed in accordance with international law and for legitimate military purposes. However, human rights organizations and many governments worldwide condemned the use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas.

The alleged use of U.S.-supplied white phosphorus munitions in Lebanon has already sparked international outrage. Calls for an independent investigation into the incident have been made by human rights groups and some governments. The United States, as the supplier of these munitions, is also under pressure to clarify its role and respond to the allegations.

White phosphorus munitions are not explicitly prohibited under international law. However, their use is subject to certain restrictions and conditions. The 1980 Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) prohibits the use of incendiary weapons against civilian populations or in areas where civilians are concentrated. It also restricts the use of these weapons when the harm caused to civilians is excessive compared to the military objective.

Israel has not yet responded to the specific allegations made in The Washington Post report. However, the Israeli government has previously stated that it adheres to international law and investigates any allegations of misconduct by its armed forces.

The United States, on the other hand, has not commented on the specific incident but has expressed its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and ensuring the responsible use of weapons. It remains to be seen how both countries will address the allegations and what steps will be taken to investigate the incident.

As the international community awaits further developments on this matter, the focus is on ensuring accountability for any potential misuse of white phosphorus munitions. The alleged attack in southern Lebanon has once again brought attention to the need for stricter regulations and oversight regarding the use of these controversial weapons.

It is crucial for an independent investigation to take place to determine the veracity of the allegations made in The Washington Post report. The findings of such an investigation will not only shed light on this specific incident but also contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding the use of white phosphorus munitions and the protection of civilian lives during military conflicts.

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BREAKING: The Washington Post reports that Israel used ‘U.S.-supplied white phosphorus munitions in an October attack in southern Lebanon that injured at least nine civilians’

— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) December 11, 2023

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@spectatorindex said BREAKING: The Washington Post reports that Israel used 'U.S.-supplied white phosphorus munitions in an October attack in southern Lebanon that injured at least nine civilians'

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