The Israeli military has deployed white phosphorus munitions over populated areas in Lebanon, according to video analysis conducted by The New York Times.

The Times collected and analyzed multiple videos showing the deployment of the munition, which can cause severe harm to civilians and military personnel. White phosphorus is a chemical compound that burns at extremely high temperatures and can cause severe burns to human tissue.

The munitions were reportedly used over areas with civilian populations, raising concerns about potential harm to non-combatants. White phosphorus has legitimate military uses, including creating smokescreens and illumination, but its use in populated areas is heavily restricted under international law due to its potential to cause indiscriminate harm.

The visual evidence suggests the Israeli military's deployment of these munitions occurred during recent military operations in Lebanon. The Times' analysis focused on verifying the authenticity and location of the video footage to confirm the use of white phosphorus munitions.

International humanitarian law generally prohibits the use of incendiary weapons like white phosphorus in areas with concentrated civilian populations. The substance can cause severe chemical burns and continue burning even after initial contact, making it particularly dangerous in populated areas.