Daily Current Affairs : 16-October-2023
The use of white phosphorus munitions by the Israeli military in Lebanon and Gaza has raised alarm and sparked controversy. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported the use of these munitions in these areas. In this note, we will explore what white phosphorus is, its role in warfare, and the implications of its use.
White Phosphorus Munitions
White phosphorus munitions come in various forms, including artillery shells, bombs, rockets, and grenades. They contain a colorless, white, or yellow substance that emits a garlic-like odor.
White Phosphorus in Warfare
- Not an Incendiary Weapon: White phosphorus is not classified as an “incendiary weapon” designed to cause fires or burns, according to international conventions.
- Multipurpose Munition: Instead, it is considered a multipurpose munition. Protocol III of the 1980 Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons bans the use of incendiaries or other substances to harm civilian populations. However, it allows military forces to argue that white phosphorus is used only as a smokescreen, signal, or to illuminate a target.
Past Accusations
Israel has faced allegations of using white phosphorus in Gaza in the past, notably during Operation Cast Lead in 2008-2009.
Characteristics of White Phosphorus
- High Temperatures: White phosphorus is a highly toxic, wax-like substance known for its ability to burn at extremely high temperatures, exceeding 800 degrees Celsius (1,500 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Smokescreens: It can melt metal and is often used by militaries to create smokescreens due to its fast-spreading fires and thick smoke production that can last for about seven minutes.
- Harmful Effects: White phosphorus is harmful to humans and can cause severe burns, penetrating down to the bone. The chemicals can be absorbed by the body, leading to dysfunction in multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart.
Important Points:
- White Phosphorus Munitions:
- Various forms: Artillery shells, bombs, rockets, grenades.
- Contains colorless, white, or yellow substance with a garlic-like odor.
- White Phosphorus in Warfare:
- Not categorized as incendiary weapon under international conventions.
- Considered a multipurpose munition.
- Protocol III of the 1980 Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons allows its use for smokescreens, signals, or illuminating targets.
- Past Accusations:
- Israel accused of using white phosphorus in Gaza during Operation Cast Lead in 2008-2009.
- Characteristics of White Phosphorus:
- Burns at extremely high temperatures, exceeding 800 degrees Celsius (1,500 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Creates fast-spreading fires and thick smoke lasting about seven minutes.
- Highly toxic, wax-like substance causing severe burns, penetrating to the bone.
- Can be absorbed by the body, leading to dysfunction in organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart.
- Implications and Concerns:
- Concerns raised about its impact on civilians in recent conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza.
- Severe burns and health implications make its use controversial in international conflicts.
- Monitoring by human rights advocates regarding its application, especially near civilian populations.
Why In News
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported that the Israeli military recently used white phosphorus munitions in Lebanon and Gaza, raising concerns about the potential humanitarian impact of such weaponry. The use of these munitions has sparked international outrage and calls for a thorough investigation into the incidents to ensure accountability and prevent further violations of human rights and international law.
MCQs about White Phosphorus
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What are the various forms in which white phosphorus munitions can be delivered?
A. Bullets, grenades, tanks, airplanes
B. Artillery shells, bombs, rockets, grenades
C. Swords, spears, shields, bows
D. Water guns, fireworks, slingshots, firecrackers
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Why is white phosphorus not classified as an incendiary weapon under international conventions?
A. It doesn’t burn at high temperatures
B. It is considered a multipurpose munition
C. It has a pleasant smell
D. It is not used in modern warfare
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What are the harmful effects of white phosphorus on the human body?
A. Causes temporary discomfort
B. Leads to skin irritation
C. Causes severe burns, penetrating to the bone, and dysfunction in organs
D. Has no harmful effects on humans
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In which conflict was Israel accused of using white phosphorus in Gaza?
A. Operation Desert Storm
B. Operation Enduring Freedom
C. Operation Cast Lead
D. Operation Iraqi Freedom
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