2023-10-14 08:13:39
Israel’s attack on Gaza continues. Rights groups have accused Israel of using white phosphorus in Gaza during the attack. The human rights organization Human Rights Watch has also come forward with the same accusation.
The organizations alleged that white phosphorus was used in the airstrikes in Lebanon on October 10 and in Gaza on October 11.
What is White Phosphorus? How does this poison affect mankind? Know more.
What is White Phosphorus?
White phosphorus is a dangerous chemical. They are capable of burning up to 800 degrees Celsius. This is the temperature at which the metal melts. They are generally yellow or colorless. Some say this waxy chemical smells like garlic. White phosphorus is commonly used as a weapon in wars. These are used in the form of bombs, grenades and rockets. A mixture of white phosphorus and rubber is used to make weapons for war. These chemicals burn violently on contact with oxygen. The United States and Israel use white phosphorus in abundance in their wars.
White phosphorus is also used to spread smoke throughout the atmosphere during the day. Burning these produces a large amount of smoke. This smoke lasts for regarding 7 minutes.
Are white phosphorus weapons dangerous?
377
White phosphorus can cause burns to human skin and destroy body cells. Did you mention that they ignite when they come in contact with oxygen? Similarly, their combustion will stop only when the oxygen is completely gone. These chemicals can seriously affect the function of the heart, liver and kidneys. If not treated on time, the organs stop working and the patient’s life is in danger.
Experts suggest that white phosphorus that sticks to skin and clothing cannot be washed off. Inhaling white phosphorus fumes can cause a number of health problems. This can seriously affect the health of the eyes. It can also cause discomfort when light reaches the eyes.
Is White Phosphorus Banned?
International conferences have yet to issue a mandate banning white phosphorus in warfare. White phosphorus is considered a weapon designed to set things on fire or otherwise. A ban has been imposed on their use in crowded places. Protocol III, a part of the Geneva Convention, published in 1983, deals with the use of such conventional weapons. Israel and the United States have not signed this protocol. They claim that white phosphorus can be used in accordance with international laws.
Did Israel Use White Phosphorus in Gaza?
The Israeli military says it has no knowledge of white phosphorus being used in Gaza. They have also not given a clear answer to the allegations that white phosphorus was used along the Lebanese border. This is not the first time such accusations have been leveled once morest Israel.
According to Human Rights Watch, Israel used white phosphorus in the Gaza conflict between December 2008 and January 18, 2009. The organization accused them of spraying white phosphorus on crowded areas and injuring many people. Many buildings and schools were destroyed in the attack, Human Rights Watch said.
Read the most reliable news, live information, world, national, Bollywood, sports, business, health and lifestyle news on News18 Malayalam website.
1697285695
#Israel #Hamas #War #Israel #White #Phosphorus #Gaza #toxin #deadly
