Al-Hurra Channel posted a statement mentioning that white phosphorus is not prohibited as a "chemical weapon." This comes in the wake of accusations against Israel for using it in Gaza since October 10 during its war on the region, following the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood that took place on October 7.
Following criticism of Al-Hurra Channel's definition of white phosphorus as well as its legitimacy of use, the channel deleted the initial image and posted another one stating that the use of white phosphorus is "legal" in specific situations, such as marking or obscuring vision.
The channel also published a report indicating that white phosphorus weapons are prohibited for use against civilians and are employed in specific military situations.
Israel’s Use of White Phosphorus in Lebanon and Gaza
Misbar Reviewed the video clips that have been circulated on the media and social media showing the Israeli army using white phosphorus weapons in Lebanon and Gaza, as well as other clips that demonstrate its use in densely populated areas in the northwest of Gaza City.
Human Rights Watch pointed out that some of the video clips that were published were filmed at the port of Gaza City. The type of munitions used in the attack was identified as 155mm howitzer artillery white phosphorus shells, which explode in the air. The organization stated that a distinctive feature of white phosphorus is the thick smoke and the garlic-like smell, both of which were observed during the attacks.
On the other hand, Amnesty International indicated that their Crisis Evidence Lab had confirmed that Israeli military units striking Gaza are equipped with artillery shells containing white phosphorus.
Is White Phosphorus Internationally Banned?
In terms of international law, the use of white phosphorus as a weapon is regulated under the Third Protocol of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. While this protocol does not explicitly prohibit the use of incendiary weapons, it requires states to take all feasible precautions to avoid harm to civilians from such weapons.
Human Rights Watch has stated that the use of white phosphorus in areas like Gaza, which is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, poses significant risks to civilians and violates international laws that prohibit the endangerment of civilians.
Amnesty International, which is conducting an investigation on the matter, has stated that the use of white phosphorus in densely populated civilian areas like Gaza should never be allowed.
After conducting further research using credible sources, it becomes evident that white phosphorus is not classified as a chemical weapon, as inaccurately indicated in the Al-Hurra channel's post. Instead, it is a chemical compound primarily employed for its ability to ignite and generate heat and flames when exposed to air. Military operations use it for various purposes, including obscuring ground activities and obstructing visibility.
In contrast to chemical weapons that rely on their toxic properties for impact, white phosphorus primarily relies on its thermal and incendiary effects. It is not typically categorized as a chemical weapon and is not subject to international agreements that prohibit such weapons. Nonetheless, the use of white phosphorus in specific regions like Gaza can result in significant ecological and health consequences.
The dissemination of imprecise information regarding white phosphorus and the conditions under which it is used may potentially be exploited to justify its deployment in civilian areas and might also minimize the gravity of the harm suffered by civilians through vague and non-specific headlines. It is worth noting that Al-Hurra had previously acknowledged in a report that "the use of white phosphorus against civilians is prohibited" during its coverage of the Russian war in Ukraine in March 2023.
What Is White Phosphorus?
White phosphorus is a chemical substance used in military conflicts to obscure ground operations and destroy targets. It ignites when exposed to oxygen, producing heat and light, and can be used to create a smokescreen that hinders visibility and sensor systems.
Its effects can be harmful to civilians in densely populated areas. White phosphorus is a weapon that causes severe burns on the human body, which are usually fatal. It can also lead to respiratory damage and organ failure. Additionally, it ignites fires that result in the destruction of buildings and civilian property.
Israel and White Phosphorus
Israel has used white phosphorus munitions in various instances, such as during its late 2008 Gaza war. The Israeli military also employed phosphorus bombs during its 1982 invasion of Lebanon and the conflict in July 2006.
White phosphorus munitions were used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, and there have been reports of their use in the 2004 U.S. attack on the Iraqi city of Fallujah. In 1991, there were allegations that former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's regime used white phosphorus against civilian targets.
The intense Israeli bombing in Gaza continues, resulting in approximately 2,670 fatalities so far, including 614 children and 370 women, with over 9,600 people injured. There have been accusations against the Israeli army of using white phosphorus munitions in civilian areas, which the Israeli military has denied.
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