White Phosphorus

Reports of the use of white phosphorus by the Israeli military on the Lebanese are beginning to surface.

White Phosphorus was used in Iraq by the US military as confirmed by the Pentagon.

White phosphorus is, "... a colorless or yellowish translucent wax-like substance that smells a bit like garlic. The substance ignites easily in air at temperatures of about 86 degrees F and its fire can be difficult to extinguish. It commonly is dispersed by high-explosive munitions." source

When a bomb containing white phosphorus explodes, the chemical is dispersed. This is what happens when white phosphorus gets on you:

"Effects of exposure to WP weapons (note WP and Willy Pete are military slang for white phosphorus)
Incandescent particles of WP cast off by a WP weapon's initial explosion can produce extensive, deep (second and third degree), painful burns. Phosphorus burns carry a greater risk of mortality than other forms of burns due to the absorption of phosphorus into the body through the burned area, resulting in liver, heart and kidney damage, and in some cases multi-organ failure. These weapons are particularly dangerous to exposed people because white phosphorus continues to burn unless deprived of oxygen or until it is completely consumed, in some cases burning right down to the bone. In some cases, burns may be limited to areas of exposed skin because the smaller WP particles do not burn completely through personal clothing before being consumed." source

To put it simply white phosphorus burns human flesh right down to the bone. Only the absence of air puts it out. Putting water on a WP burn helps it to continue to burn.

The Pentagon admitted to using WP in Fallujah. Now there are reports of its use in Lebanon. The reports also say that the majority of civilian deaths in Lebanon are those of children. We need to remember that there are children subjected to a weapon that burns the flesh right to the bone as the child suffers in excruciating pain. What would you call that?

The painting is the "Scream" by Munch. Google "white phosphorous" under images if you can stomach it.