For the company, the use of this type of weapon “poses the risk of serious and longlasting injury to civilians.”in addition to “violating the principles of international humanitarian law”.
This type of weapon is banned by the UN (United Nations) and its use may constitute a war crime. White phosphorus ignites spontaneously when it comes into contact with free oxygen in the air. If it comes into contact with the skin, it causes severe burns, can attack bones and cause multiple organ failure. Healing wounds caused by white phosphorus is also considered difficult.
When white phosphorus is used in areas with a high concentration of civilians, those affected are at high risk of excruciating burns and lifelong suffering.
Lama Fakih, Middle East and North Africa Director at HRW
The Palestinian Defense Ministry also accused Israel of using white phosphorus in the Gaza Strip. a region in which more than two million civilians live.
Israel has not yet commented on the accusation of using this type of weapon.
HRW had previously denounced “violations” by Hamas and Israel in the war. The organization condemned the invasion of Israeli territory by extremists, but also rejected the country’s violent response led by Benjamin Netanyahu.