Israel unlawfully used white phosphorus in Lebanon, rights group says

Human Rights Watch and other international observers have reported that the Israeli military used white phosphorus munitions in populated areas of southern Lebanon during the ongoing conflict. The use of the incendiary chemical has raised serious concerns about civilian harm and violations of international humanitarian law.

According to the rights group’s investigation, white phosphorus was deployed over residential neighborhoods in the town of Yohmor on March 3, 2026. Video and photographic evidence reviewed by Human Rights Watch show airbursts of the substance near civilian homes and infrastructure.

White phosphorus can ignite on contact with oxygen, creating intense fires and severe burns. Its use in densely populated areas is widely considered unlawful under international law because it fails to sufficiently protect civilians from harm.

Human Rights Watch has called on the Israeli government to immediately stop using white phosphorus in civilian areas and urged states supplying military equipment to suspend assistance that could contribute to further harm.

The United Nations has also expressed concern over the reports of white phosphorus use in Lebanon. UN officials highlighted the rapidly worsening humanitarian situation, noting that incendiary weapons in populated regions exacerbate risks to civilians already facing displacement and violence.

Israeli authorities have not publicly confirmed that white phosphorus was used in the reported incidents. The escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah has contributed to extensive civilian casualties and widespread displacement throughout southern Lebanon.