Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of unlawfully using white phosphorus munitions in a residential area of southern Lebanon. In a report released on March 9, 2026, the New York-based organization said Israeli forces fired white phosphorus shells from artillery into the town of Yohmor on March 3, 2026. HRW verified seven images showing white phosphorus bursting over civilian homes, igniting at least two houses and a vehicle as civil defense workers attempted to extinguish the fires.

The report explained that white phosphorus ignites upon contact with oxygen and is typically used to create smoke screens or illuminate battlefields. However, it can also serve as an incendiary weapon, causing severe burns, respiratory damage, organ failure, and death. Despite a 2024 ceasefire, Israel has continued operations targeting Hezbollah, including multiple strikes and troop deployments near the border.

Lebanese authorities reported at least 394 deaths and over 500,000 displaced due to Israeli attacks. HRW urged Israel to halt such actions and called on arms-supplying countries to suspend military aid and pressure Israel to stop using these weapons in civilian areas.