Israel Accused Of Using White Phosphorus Over Lebanese Towns
The New York Times verified videos it says show Israeli forces using white phosphorus over Nabatieh, Lebanon, on May 30, and near Tyre and at least three other Lebanese towns since March.
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International say using white phosphorus in or near populated areas violates treaty rules and can cause deep burns and respiratory damage. White phosphorus shells can disperse burning material across roughly 125 to 250 meters and can stick to skin, clothing and reignite on exposure to oxygen.[1] Israel says it uses white phosphorus for smoke screens and target marking and denies unlawful use; NPR has not independently verified the specific incidents.[1]
The Times' verification, published June 6, adds visual corroboration to earlier allegations of incendiary munitions in Lebanon. The reporting identified the May 30 Nabatieh footage and cited apparent uses near Tyre and other towns that date back to March.
Since Hezbollah rejected a ceasefire agreed by Lebanon and Israel on Wednesday, continued Israeli airstrikes have killed nine people, including three Lebanese military personnel. Human rights groups and legal experts say the latest visual evidence raises urgent questions about compliance with rules governing incendiary weapons.
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📌 Key Facts
- The New York Times reported on June 6, 2026, that it verified social media videos showing Israeli white phosphorus use in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on May 30, 2026.
- The Times also verified apparent white phosphorus use near the city of Tyre and at least three other Lebanese towns since March 2026.
- Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International say Israel’s use of white phosphorus in or near populated areas violates treaty rules on incendiary weapons, though white phosphorus itself is not banned outright.
- White phosphorus shells can disperse burning material over a 125- to 250-meter-wide area, stick to skin and clothing, cause deep burns and respiratory damage, and can reignite when exposed to oxygen.
- Israel says it uses white phosphorus for smoke screens and target marking and denies using it unlawfully; NPR has not independently verified the specific incidents.
- Since Hezbollah rejected a ceasefire agreed by Lebanon and Israel on Wednesday, continued Israeli airstrikes have killed nine people, including three Lebanese military personnel.
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