HRW Traces 2 White Phosphorus Shells Fired by Israel in Lebanon to Arkansas Arsenal
Updated
Updated · Pop Smoke Media · Jun 2
HRW Traces 2 White Phosphorus Shells Fired by Israel in Lebanon to Arkansas Arsenal
3 articles · Updated · Pop Smoke Media · Jun 2
Summary
Human Rights Watch said at least two M825-series 155mm white phosphorus shells airburst over Yohmor homes on March 3, igniting rooftops, balconies and a car in the southern Lebanese town.
Production codes on shell remnants traced the munitions to Pine Bluff Arsenal in Arkansas, the only Northern Hemisphere facility that fills white phosphorus rounds; metal parts were made by General Dynamics.
HRW said airburst use of white phosphorus over a populated residential area is unlawful under international humanitarian law, and noted Israel had pledged to phase out battlefield use and has alternative smoke munitions.
The IDF did not address HRW's findings. The report sharpens scrutiny of U.S. arms oversight, with Washington supplying Israel more than $3.8 billion in weapons annually and previously saying it was investigating earlier white phosphorus allegations.
Who is accountable when US-made weapons are used unlawfully in Lebanon?
Why use controversial incendiary weapons on a town when safer alternatives exist?
Does the US expect its laws on armed conflict to be followed by allies?
The Yohmor Incident and US White Phosphorus: Civilian Impact, International Law, and Calls for Arms Suspension
Overview
In March 2026, after the Israeli military ordered evacuations in Yohmor and nearby villages, reports emerged that M825-series 155mm white phosphorus shells were fired over Yohmor. Human Rights Watch investigated and found that fires in the area were likely caused by felt wedges containing white phosphorus, linking the incident to these munitions. The report highlights that much of the world’s white phosphorus is produced in the United States, notably at Pine Bluff Arsenal, in collaboration with major chemical companies. This chain of events underscores the connection between U.S. production and the use of white phosphorus in conflict zones, raising serious humanitarian and legal concerns.