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- Also called "Willy Pete"GlobalSecurity.org: White Phosphorus
- Color: either transparent or translucent yellowReuters: Key facts about white-phosphorus weapons (January 10, 2009)
- Odor is reminiscent of garlicReuters: Key facts about white-phosphorus weapons (January 10, 2009)
- Used in warfare to illuminate targets or create smokescreensReuters: Key facts about white-phosphorus weapons (January 10, 2009)
- It is Illegal to target civilians or destroy buildings with it, according to international lawThe Huffington Post: Israel's Use Of White Phosphorus Not Illegal: Red Cross (January 13, 2009)
- Can cause severe burns and irritation
- Contact can damage liver, kidneys, or heartASTDR: ToxFAQs: White Phosphorus
- Prolonged inhalation causes "phossy jaw"—erosion of jaw boneASTDR: ToxFAQs: White Phosphorus
- Contact can lead to deathASTDR: ToxFAQs: White Phosphorus
- Not considered a carcinogenASTDR: ToxFAQs: White Phosphorus
- Pentagon representatives deny that U.S. forces have used white phosphorous in AfghanistanDaily Mail: US accused of using 'illegal' white phosphorus in chemical attack... (May 10, 2009)
- Used by Israeli forces during their attack on Gaza in late 2008-early 2009Times Online: Israel admits using white phosphorous in attacks on Gaza (January 24, 2009)
- According to Red Cross, Israeli use appeared to be legalThe Huffington Post: Israel's Use Of White Phosphorus Not Illegal: Red Cross (January 13, 2009)
- Used in fireworks and rat poisonASTDR: ToxFAQs: White Phosphorus
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White phosphorous is a chemical agent used in warfare to illuminate targets and provide cover by creating smokescreens. If it contacts the skin, white phosphorous can cause severe chemical burns and death.
In May of 2009, representatives of several human rights groups accused the U.S. Military of using white phosphorous in an attack on Taliban forces in Afghanistan. Several Afghan civilians have been treated at area hospitals with what doctors believe may be white phosphorous burns.Daily Mail: US accused of using 'illegal' white phosphorus in chemical attack... (May 10, 2009)
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