BEIRUT — Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in southern Lebanon, raising concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the ongoing conflict, according to Hurriyet Daily News.
In a report released Monday, the New York based rights group said the Israeli military fired artillery shells containing white phosphorus over the town of Yohmor on March 3, 2026. According to HRW, the attack took place over homes in the town, which lies in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel.
The organization said it verified and geolocated seven images that appear to show white phosphorus shells bursting in the air above a residential neighborhood. The images also show civil defense workers responding to fires in at least two homes and one car in the area.
White phosphorus is a chemical substance that ignites when it comes into contact with oxygen. Militaries sometimes use it to create smoke screens or light up battlefields. However, when it lands in populated areas, it can start fires and cause severe injuries. Burns from white phosphorus can damage skin, organs, and lungs, and in some cases can be fatal.
“The Israeli military’s unlawful use of white phosphorus over residential areas is extremely alarming and will have serious consequences for civilians,” said Ramzi Kaiss, HRW’s Lebanon researcher.
The report comes as tensions remain high along the Israel-Lebanon border. Israel has continued strikes against Hezbollah targets despite a ceasefire agreement reached in 2024. In response to attacks by the Iran-backed group, Israeli forces have carried out several waves of airstrikes and sent ground troops into border areas.
Lebanese authorities say at least 394 people have been killed in Israeli attacks, while more than half a million residents have been displaced. Israel has also urged people living south of the Litani River to evacuate the area.
HRW called on Israel to stop using white phosphorus in residential areas and urged countries supplying weapons to Israel to reconsider military assistance.
