Human Lives Human Rights: In a recent assault on the Gaza strip, the Israeli regime has been accused of using prohibited conventional weapons, including bombs containing white phosphorus. This is not the first instance of such usage against the people of Gaza. During a 58-day war in the region, Israel reportedly used these bombs extensively against the civilian population.
White phosphorus bombs are known for their devastating effects. As a highly dangerous incendiary substance, it melts the skin and flesh upon contact, reaching right up to the bone marrow. Due to their destructive nature, these weapons are prohibited under international law.
The Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, ratified in Geneva in 1980 and signed by most countries, classifies weapons with four main characteristics as prohibited conventional weapons. Smaller treaties such as the Ottawa Treaty (mines) and the Saint Petersburg Declaration (explosive bullets) also prohibit the use of incendiary bombs against civilian populations.
The Convention outlines five protocols regarding prohibited conventional weapons:
Weapons with undetectable parts
Military traps (explosives), mines, and other similar covert devices
Incendiary weapons and flamethrowers
Incendiary materials and bombs are specifically prohibited for use against civilians. These types of ammunition are typically used to burn the skin and tissues of military personnel, ignite military warehouses and hideouts, and destroy plants used by the enemy for camouflage.
Despite these regulations, the Israeli regime is accused of using phosphorous bombs against the civilian population of Gaza, which is a clear violation of international law. Critics argue that Israel continues to use these weapons due to support from the United States, disregarding international conventions and causing harm to the unarmed people of Gaza.
