Israel Unlawfully Used White Phosphorus Over Homes in Southern Lebanon, HRW Finds
Key Takeaways
- Human Rights Watch found Israel unlawfully used white phosphorus over residential Yohmor, southern Lebanon
- HRW verified and geolocated seven images showing artillery-fired white phosphorus munitions
- HRW concluded the phosphorus use violated international humanitarian law
Alleged white-phosphorus use
Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported it found evidence that Israel used white phosphorus over residential areas in the southern Lebanese town of Yohmor.
“Human Rights Watch (HRW) has found evidence Israel used white phosphorus in residential areas of southern Lebanon earlier this month, in violation of international humanitarian law”
HRW said the strikes occurred on March 3 and constituted a violation of international humanitarian law.
HRW said it confirmed the authenticity of seven photos showing airburst white-phosphorus munitions fired over a populated area.
HRW noted that fires broke out in at least two homes following the strikes.
White phosphorus use concerns
HRW and its Lebanon researcher emphasized the unlawfulness and humanitarian danger of using white phosphorus in populated areas.
The organisation warned the weapon’s use is "unlawful" and will have dire consequences for civilians, noting that airburst white phosphorus is indiscriminate in populated areas and can ignite on contact with oxygen.
Verified images of airburst damage
HRW said it verified and geolocated images posted by Lebanese media from the morning of March 3, and documented civil-defense teams extinguishing fires in damaged homes and a vehicle.
“March 9, 2026 Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of unlawfully using white phosphorus in recent attacks in Lebanon”
The group highlighted both the photographic evidence it authenticated and the immediate civilian impacts (fires in at least two homes and one car) linked to the airbursts over the residential area.
HRW calls for probe
HRW called for an international investigation and accountability and urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, while reports noted Israeli authorities had not immediately responded to the allegations.
The organisation’s demand for a probe and accountability followed its conclusion that the use of white phosphorus in populated areas risks civilians and may violate the laws of war.
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