As Israel’s military operations in Gaza persist following an intense land-sea-air assault by the Palestinian group Hamas, there are reports and videos circulating on social media alleging that the Israel Defense Force (IDF) is employing banned white phosphorus bombs in this densely populated region.
What Is White Phosphorous?
White phosphorus is a waxy, yellowish-to-clear chemical with a pungent, garlic-like odor. It is a highly combustible chemical that burns rapidly and brightly when exposed to air. Militaries around the world, including the United States, use it in incendiary weapons for various purposes, such as illuminating targets at night or inflicting damage on adversaries.
This chemical reaction produces intense heat (about 815 degrees Celsius), light, and thick white smoke, which is used by armies to create smokescreens in sensitive areas.
White phosphorus can cause fast-spreading and widespread fires on the ground. Once ignited, it is challenging to extinguish because it adheres to many surfaces, including skin and clothing. It poses a severe danger to civilians as it can cause deep tissue and bone burns, and it can reignite even after initial treatment.
Historical Examples of White Phosphorus Usage in Wars
- White phosphorus was used in military conflicts as early as the 1800s when Irish nationalists used it against British forces, leading to the term “Fenian fire.”
- The British army used white phosphorus in both World Wars.
- US forces used white phosphorus against insurgents in Fallujah after the invasion of Iraq.
- Israel acknowledged using phosphorus shells during the 2006 Lebanon War against Hezbollah. Human rights groups accused the IDF of using white phosphorus against civilians during the 2008-09 Gaza War (Operation Cast Lead).
- The Syrian government, under Bashar Al-Assad, faced allegations from the international community of using chemical weapons, including white phosphorus, during the Syrian crisis.
- The Russian Army was recently accused of using white phosphorous bombs in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Banned by the United Nations
In 1972, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution categorizing incendiary weapons as “arms viewed with horror.” These weapons are designed to set fire to objects or cause burns or respiratory injuries to people through the action of flame, heat, or a combination thereof, resulting from a chemical reaction of a flammable substance like napalm or white phosphorus.
In 1980, the international community agreed to ban or limit the use of certain weapons that cause excessive pain or harm to civilians. Protocol III of this agreement restricts the use of weapons that set things on fire.
The use of white phosphorus in conflict zones is highly controversial and has led to condemnation by various international bodies and human rights organizations due to its severe and long-lasting impact on both combatants and civilians.
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Source: NDTV
