WHO Investigates Reports of Israeli White Phosphorus Use in Southern Lebanon

The World Health Organization (WHO) is investigating reports that the Israeli Air Force used phosphorus munitions in Lebanon, according to the organization’s representative in the country, Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar.

Speaking at a briefing in Geneva, Abubakar said the WHO had contacted hospitals but had not yet received information about injuries linked to phosphorus or other chemicals.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a report released Monday that the Israel used artillery-fired white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in the southern Lebanese town of Yohmor on March 3.

According to the report, civil defense workers responded to fires in at least two homes and one car after white phosphorus munitions were deployed over the residential area.

HRW said it verified and geolocated seven images showing airburst white phosphorus munitions over the town.

White phosphorus ignites when exposed to oxygen and can set homes, agricultural areas, and other civilian objects on fire. The substance can also burn human tissue and may cause infections, organ damage, or respiratory failure even if burns are minor.

HRW said the use of airburst white phosphorus in populated areas is unlawfully indiscriminate and does not meet requirements under international humanitarian law to take feasible precautions to avoid civilian harm.

The reported attack occurred after Israel had warned residents of the village to evacuate. Abubakar said some of the affected areas had been designated for evacuation, but many residents chose to remain in their homes.

“They may be at risk of white phosphorus contamination,” he said.

On March 2, the Israel Defense Forces announced the start of an offensive operation in Lebanon after several rockets were fired from Lebanese territory toward Israel. Iran-backed Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the rocket attack. Israel then launched strikes on multiple locations in Lebanon, including areas in Beirut.

Israel had previously used white phosphorus between October 2023 and May 2024 across border villages in southern Lebanon, putting civilians at risk.