DISCUSS (0)
Israel Bombs Gaza With White Phosphorus
Times Online, UK:
Israel is believed to be using controversial white phosphorus shells to screen its assault on the heavily populated Gaza Strip yesterday. The weapon, used by British and US forces in Iraq, can cause horrific burns but is not illegal if used as a smokescreen.
The Geneva Treaty of 1980 stipulates that white phosphorus should not be used as a weapon of war in civilian areas, but there is no blanket ban under international law on its use as a smokescreen or for illumination.
Note: The Times writer is hopelessly optimistic or naive. In 2006 Israel used this chemical as a weapon against Lebanon, just as the United States has been doing in Iraq. Additional links in the comments.
