History Uncensored

Is Israel Using White Phosphorus In Lebanon, And Is It Legal?

Published: June 16, 2026

Duration: 9:39

White phosphorus has been used on battlefields for more than a century, but its deployment over populated areas continues to spark fierce legal and ethical debate. Bianca Nobilo examines the growing scrutiny surrounding Israel's use of white phosphorus in Lebanon, where human rights groups have raised concerns about the impact on civilians. Capable of burning at extreme temperatures and causing severe injuries, the substance occupies a controversial legal grey area because it is often classified as a smoke-screening munition rather than a chemical weapon. From its origins in the 17th century to its use in modern conflicts, the history...