White Phosphorus: Israel's Illegal Weapon of War

Introduction:

White phosphorus is a chemical that can be used to create a smokescreen or to mark targets. It can also be used as a weapon, and it is illegal to use it against civilians. Israel has used white phosphorus in Gaza and Lebanon in the past, and it has been accused of using it against civilians.

Human Rights Watch has condemned Israel's use of white phosphorus, saying that it is a violation of international law. The article also discusses the legal ramifications of Israel's use of white phosphorus. It says that Israel could be charged with war crimes for using white phosphorus against civilians.

Why is white phosphorus illegal?

White phosphorus is illegal to use against civilians because it is a highly incendiary weapon that can cause serious burns and death. It can also cause long-term health problems, such as respiratory problems, cancer, and birth defects.

How has Israel used white phosphorus?

Israel has used white phosphorus in Gaza and Lebanon in the past. In 2009, Israel used white phosphorus in Gaza during Operation Cast Lead. Human Rights Watch documented the use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas of Gaza, including on schools and hospitals.

In 2014, Israel again used white phosphorus in Gaza during Operation Protective Edge. Human Rights Watch again documented the use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas of Gaza.

What are the legal ramifications of Israel's use of white phosphorus?

Israel could be charged with war crimes for using white phosphorus against civilians. The use of white phosphorus against civilians is a violation of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW).

The CCW prohibits the use of incendiary weapons against civilians. Incendiary weapons are weapons that are primarily designed to set fire to objects or to cause burn injuries to people.

What can be done to stop Israel from using white phosphorus?

The international community must pressure Israel to stop using white phosphorus against civilians. The United Nations Security Council should pass a resolution condemning Israel's use of white phosphorus and demanding that Israel stop using it.

The international community should also support efforts to investigate and prosecute Israel for its use of white phosphorus. The International Criminal Court should open an investigation into Israel's use of white phosphorus.

Conclusion

Israel's use of white phosphorus against civilians is a serious violation of international law. It is a war crime, and it must be stopped. The international community must pressure Israel to stop using white phosphorus and to hold it accountable for its use of this illegal weapon.

Additional Information

White phosphorus is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems. If you are exposed to white phosphorus, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Here are some of the symptoms of white phosphorus poisoning:

• Burning pain in the eyes, nose, and throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Coma

If you are exposed to white phosphorus, you should immediately wash the affected area with soap and water. You should also remove any contaminated clothing. If you have inhaled white phosphorus, you should move to fresh air and seek medical attention immediately.