Claims of Israel's Use of White Phosphorus in Gaza Surface Amid Ongoing Conflict

• 14 Oct 2023

As Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza following an assault by Hamas, allegations of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) using banned white phosphorus bombs in the densely populated area have emerged on social media.

Key Points

• Characteristics of White Phosphorus: White phosphorus is a waxy, yellowish-to-clear chemical known for its pungent odor. It is highly flammable and burns brightly upon exposure to air.
• Militaries worldwide, including the United States, use it in incendiary weapons for various purposes, such as illuminating targets at night and causing damage to adversaries.
• Consequences of White Phosphorus Usage: The chemical's combustion produces intense heat, light, and thick white smoke, which can be used to create smokescreens in sensitive areas.
• White phosphorus can start fast-spreading fires on the ground, posing a significant challenge to extinguish.
• It is particularly dangerous to civilians, causing severe burns that penetrate deeply into tissues and bones, and can even reignite after initial treatment.
• Historical Usage of White Phosphorus: White phosphorus has a history of use in military conflicts dating back to the 1800s.
• The British army and US forces employed it in various wars, including World Wars and conflicts in Iraq and Lebanon.
• Accusations of IDF's use of white phosphorus against civilians emerged during the Gaza War in 2008-09.
• International Reaction and Bans: The United Nations General Assembly classified incendiary weapons, including those containing white phosphorus, as a category of arms viewed with horror in 1972.
• An agreement in 1980 aimed to ban or limit the use of weapons causing excessive harm to civilians.