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According to recent reports, Israeli forces have been using white phosphorous against the civilian population of Gaza.

Facts About:

It is a waxy solid that is colorless, white, or yellow.

Occurrence:

• It does not occur naturally. Phosphate rocks are used to make it.
• It is a highly flammable substance that reacts with oxygen in the atmosphere.
• As little as 10 to 15 degrees above room temperature can cause it to catch fire.

Every country has strict regulations regarding its manufacturing and handling due to its combustible nature.

Applications:

• It is primarily used in the military, but it may also be used as a component in fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds.
• It was originally used in pesticides and fireworks, but many countries have banned its use in a variety of industries.

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), an intergovernmental organization and the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, has not included White Phosphorus in any of the three Chemical Weapons Schedules.