White House 'concerned' over reports that Israel used white phosphorus in Lebanon
White phosphorus
The White House said on Monday (Dec 11) that the United States is "concerned" over new reports that Israel used US-supplied white phosphorus in a bombing attack in Lebanon. The attack reportedly injured civilians and burned down houses.
White House spokesperson John Kirby told the reporters on Air Force One: "We've seen the reports. Certainly concerned about that. We'll be asking questions to try to learn a little bit more."
Kirby said white phosphorus has a "legitimate military utility" for illumination and producing smoke to conceal movements.
White phosphorus is a waxy crystalline solid, which turns dark on exposure to light. This toxic substance comes in white to yellow transparent.
White phosphorus has a match-like or garlic-like, acrid odour, however, it is not feasible to depend on odour for its detection.
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It is used by the military in the form of various types of ammunition as an incendiary agent because it spontaneously catches fire in the air when it comes incontact with oxygen.
White phosphorus allegedly puts civilians at risk of serious and long-term injury and is prohibited from use in residential areas.
Israel has faced such allegations in the past, but it has always denied it.
He said, "Obviously any time that we provide items like white phosphorus to another military, it is with the full expectation that it will be used in keeping with those legitimate purposes... and in keeping with the law of armed conflict."
On being asked about the same, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said: "The IDF and the entire security establishment acts according to international law. That is how we have acted and how we will act."
Watch:Netanyahu warns 'it's the beginning of the end of Hamas'
Impact of the use of white phosphorus
White phosphorus munitions can cause severe harm as exposure to them leads to burn injuries and vapour inhalation.
It can be absorbed into the body when inhaled, ingested, or through skin contact. It sticks to many surfaces, including skin and clothing.
It can be released into indoor air as smoke and can contaminate water bodies, impacting millions of humans and animals.
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)