Casting a Torch on White Phosphorus: A Fiery Tale of Science and Controversy

Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol “P” and atomic number 15. It is an essential element for life and is found in various forms in nature.
Phosphorus is widely distributed in the Earth’s crust, primarily in the form of phosphate minerals. Phosphorus can exist in several allotropes, including white phosphorus (a highly reactive and toxic form), red phosphorus (a less reactive form), and black phosphorus (a more stable form with unique electronic properties). Each allotrope has different properties and applications.
Allotropes are different structural forms of the same chemical element, meaning they consist of the same type of atoms but arrange them in distinct patterns or structures. These different structural arrangements result in unique physical and chemical properties for each allotrope. Some elements can have multiple allotropes, and these allotropes can have different characteristics, such as different phases (solid, liquid, gas) or different electrical and thermal conductivities.

White phosphorus is highly reactive and flammable. It ignites spontaneously in the presence of air, which makes it dangerous to handle. It can also be toxic when inhaled or ingested. White phosphorus has been historically used in various applications, including smoke grenades, incendiary munitions, and matches.
The use of white phosphorus as a weapon in conflict zones, particularly in densely populated areas, has been a subject of controversy and concern. In the context of Israel and the Palestinian territories, there have been reports of the use of white phosphorus munitions during military operations.
The most widely publicized incident involving white phosphorus in the region occurred during the conflict in Gaza in 2008-2009. Again in 2023 we can see Israel bombing Palestine’s civil area with white phosphorus saying that they are actually attacking HAMAS.

Human rights organizations and various reports alleged that white phosphorus artillery shells were used in populated areas during the conflict. White phosphorus can cause severe burns and poses a risk to civilians when used in urban environments.
The use of white phosphorus in populated areas is a matter of international concern, as it can raise questions about compliance with international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians during armed conflicts.
International law, including the Geneva Conventions, sets clear guidelines on the use of incendiary weapons like white phosphorus to prevent unnecessary suffering and protect non-combatants.
Other than white phosphorus Israel has been using napalm bombs as well.There have been reports of Israel using napalm bombs in past conflicts, particularly during the 1973 Arab Israel War. A napalm bomb is a highly incendiary weapon that has been used in various armed conflicts throughout history. Napalm is a mixture of a flammable fuel, such as gasoline or kerosene, and a thickening agent. When dropped or dispersed, it sticks to targets and ignites, creating intense and persistent fires that can cause widespread destruction and severe burn injuries.

White phosphorus can cause severe thermal and chemical burns upon contact with the skin. The burns can be deep and excruciatingly painful. These burns can be challenging to treat and often require specialized medical care. It produces a thick white smoke when it ignites, which can obscure visibility and make it difficult for both military personnel and civilians to navigate through affected areas. This smoke can also serve as a screen for military operations. White phosphorus can ignite flammable materials, leading to secondary fires that can further damage infrastructure and pose additional risks to civilians.
Inhaling white phosphorus fumes or smoke can lead to toxic effects on the respiratory system and other organs, potentially causing severe health problems or even fatalities. White phosphorus munitions can have long-lasting environmental effects, contaminating soil and water. This can pose health risks to local populations and complicate post-conflict recovery efforts. Treating white phosphorus burn injuries can be extremely challenging and dangerous for medical personnel due to the highly reactive nature of the substance. When white phosphorus munitions are used in populated areas, there is a significant risk to civilian populations. Civilians can be injured directly by the munitions, suffer burn injuries, or be exposed to toxic smoke and fumes.