NYT Investigation: “Israel” deployed white phosphorus over populated areas in Lebanon

BEIRUT, June 07 (YPA) – The New York Times has revealed in an investigation supported by visual evidence and video analysis that Israeli occupation forces have deployed white phosphorus munitions over populated areas in southern Lebanon during its ongoing war on the country.

According to the investigation, the verified videos and photographs showed white phosphorus munitions being used over the southern city of Nabatieh and near the coastal city of Tyre, as well as the towns of Qlayaa, Khiam, and Yohmor, after “Israel” ramped up the frequency and volatility of its war on Lebanon once more on 2 March.

The newspaper reported that, “Distinctive smoke trails from this type of munition were seen as recently as May 30 in Nabatieh, a city of roughly 40,000, in social media footage.”

Munitions experts consulted by the newspaper concluded that “the imagery showed artillery projectiles bursting midair in Lebanon, releasing streams of burning white phosphorous below — consistent with previous Israeli uses of American M825A1 shells.” These munitions disperse burning white phosphorus wedges over a wide area.

White phosphorus ignites on contact with oxygen and is commonly used by militaries to create smoke screens and battlefield concealment. While its possession and use are not prohibited under international law, deploying it in populated civilian areas can violate the laws of war because of its indiscriminate effects and the severe injuries it can inflict.

The findings add to a growing body of documentation by Lebanese and Palestinians, as well as international rights organizations, who have accused “Israel” of using white phosphorus in populated civilian areas in Lebanon and Gaza.

@E.Y.M