The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the use of white phosphorous smoke bombs in an attack on Dheira, a village near the Israeli-Lebanon border. The IDF has stated that these potent, U.S-supplied weapons – which cause thick smoke and severe burns – were utilized solely to create smokescreens and were not intended to target individuals or property. Reports indicate the October 16 white phosphorus bomb attack led to at least three hospitalizations and incineration of at least four houses.
The shelling barrage trapped residents inside their homes for hours, with many, like 29-year-old farmer, Uday Abu Sari, experiencing significant respiratory troubles due to the smoke. Fragments of the shells, made in Louisiana and Arkansas in 1989 and 1992, exhibited production codes identical to those used by Israel during a Gaza offensive in 2009. The IDF continues to stand by their statement that the phosphorous shells were used for creating smokescreens and not for targeting or causing fires, and that their actions were compliant with international law.
U.S. defense officials indicated they were aware of the reports and have expressed their concerns over the weapons use, insisting on the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law. This comes at a time when Congress is considering President Biden’s request for nearly $106 billion in aid for Israel and Ukraine. Human Rights Watch Executive Director, Tirana Hassan, has urged U.S. lawmakers to reassess military aid to Israel in light of the shelling incident.