Amnesty International confirmed today, Friday, October 13, 2023, that the Crisis Evidence Lab is investigating the use of white phosphorus by Israeli military units in Gaza, including in an airstrike that took place near a hotel on the beach in the city.

Amnesty International explained that white phosphorus is an incendiary substance commonly used to create a dense smoke barrier or to mark targets. It burns at very high temperatures when exposed to air and can continue to burn within flesh. It also causes excruciating pain and life-altering injuries and cannot be extinguished with water.

The organization also warned against the use of white phosphorus in civilian areas and noted that Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

The organization stated, "As we continue to closely investigate these extremely concerning cases, we urge Israel to respect international humanitarian law at all times and to take care to spare civilians."