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Israel Likely Using Shells That Burn Skin

Controversial tool to disguise troops causes horrific damage

By Jason Farago, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 5, 2009 5:19 AM CST

(Newser) – As Israeli soldiers approached the limits of Gaza City, reports have suggested they are using controversial white phosphorus shells to cover their advance. Although the shells are not illegal if used as a smokescreen, they can cause severe burns among bystanders, says the Times of London. An international treaty says they should not be used during a war in civilian areas—and Gaza is among the world's most densely populated.

Last night the Israeli military denied it was using phosphorus, but it also refused to disclose what was producing the telltale white smoke seen in Gaza. Israel also used phosphorous in 2006 during the war in Lebanon. It produces second- or third-degree burns as particles continue to smolder after contact with the skin; often, the phosphorus burns down to the bone.

[Images (4)]

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Smoke is seen in the background as Israeli infantry soldiers take up positions on the border before entering the Gaza Strip, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009. (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner)

Explosions from Israeli fire are seen over the northern Gaza Strip, as seen from the Israel side of the border, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009. (AP Photo/Jini,Eliyahu Ben Igal)

Palestinians react outside Shifa hospital in Gaza City, after hearing the news that their loved one was killed during the Israeli army operation in Gaza, Sunday Jan. 4, 2009. (AP Photo/Ashraf Amra)

An Israeli military attack helicopter releases a flare while operating over the northern Gaza Strip near the border with Israel, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009. (AP Photo/ Ariel Schalit)

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If white phosphorus was deliberately fired at a crowd of people someone would end up in The Hague. White phosphorus is also a terror weapon. The descending blobs of phosphorus will burn when in contact with skin. - Charles Heyman, British army major

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Israel Likely Using Shells That Burn Skin