The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated alarmingly, with reports indicating that Israel has employed phosphorus bombs in multiple southern Lebanese towns. These bombs have sparked extensive forest fires, posing a serious threat to residential areas and creating a hazardous environment on the ground.
Lebanon’s National News Agency has documented Israeli forces targeting towns such as Houla, Tallouseh, Adaisseh, and Kfarkela with phosphorus bombs. Civil defense teams are working tirelessly to contain the rapidly spreading fires and prevent them from reaching inhabited areas. Residents affected by smoke inhalation have been rushed to Marjayoun Governmental Hospital.
In addition to phosphorus bombs, heavy artillery fire has been reported in several towns, including Aita al-Shaab, Wadi al-Asafir in Khiyam, Deir Mimas, Kfarkela, Marwahin, Naqoura, and Alma al-Shaab. This artillery fire has caused infrastructure damage and endangered civilian lives. For instance, an Israeli tank targeted a vacant house in the Azra’il neighborhood near Kfarchouba.
Hezbollah has responded with multiple attacks on Israeli military positions, claiming to have injured several soldiers in ten separate incidents near the Lebanon border. Their attacks utilized drones, Katyusha and Falaq rockets, and rocket-propelled weapons, targeting Israeli military equipment and positions in Metula, Kiryat Shmona, Kfar Szold, Harish Baram, and Ramtha.
The use of phosphorus bombs is controversial due to their potential to cause severe injuries and fires, and their deployment in this conflict represents a significant escalation. International law restricts the use of such weapons in civilian areas, which may draw international condemnation and calls for restraint from both sides.
This situation underscores the volatile and dangerous nature of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. The international community is closely monitoring developments and urging both parties to exercise caution, avoid actions that could further escalate tensions, and minimize civilian casualties.
