Human Rights Watch says Israel used white phosphorous in Gaza, Lebanon

Palestinians evacuate wounded after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah refugee camp, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. (AP Photo/Hatem Ali)

JERUSALEM (Reuters): Human Rights Watch on Thursday (Oct 12) accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions in its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, saying the use of such weapons puts civilians at risk of serious and long-term injury.

Asked for comment on the allegations, Israel's military said it was "currently not aware of the use of weapons containing white phosphorous in Gaza." It did not provide comment on the rights watchdog's allegations of their use in Lebanon.