The use of white phosphorus in the 2008-2009 Gaza conflict by Israel, which dropped an estimated 200 white phosphorus bombs, drew widespread international and national condemnation. Israel announced in 2013 that it was producing a new white phosphorus-free bomb, but continued to keep the rights to use white phosphorus munitions secret until an alternative was available. Human Rights Watch (HRW) defines white phosphorus as a chemical substance that burns with an intense flame when exposed to air and leaves behind white smoke; it is used as both a signaling and an incendiary agent.
White phosphorus is not explicitly prohibited by international law, but its use in warfare raises concerns due to the high risk of civilian casualties and collateral damage. The Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW) does regulate the use of certain white phosphorus munitions, particularly when used in densely populated areas.
However, the CCW protocol, which was not signed by Israel, does have two significant gaps. Firstly, it restricts the use of white phosphorus in areas where civilians are present but does not cover all situations, such as the white phosphorus artillery shell attacks in Gaza. Secondly, the protocol defines white phosphorus munitions as those primarily designed to create smoke and ignite human targets, so their use as an incendiary weapon in smoke screening applications is technically allowed, even if it results in harm to civilians.
In conclusion, while white phosphorus has legitimate military uses, its high risk of causing civilian casualties and collateral damage raises ethical concerns. International law does regulate the use of this substance in some cases, but there are gaps that allow for its continued use in certain situations.
