White Phosphorous and Dense Inert Metal Explosives: Is Israel Using Banned, Experimental Munitions?

[EFerrari]

White Phosphorous and Dense Inert Metal Explosives: Is Israel Using Banned and Experimental Munitions in Gaza?

Israel is coming under increasing criticism for its possible use of banned and experimental munitions. Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of illegally firing white phosphorous, which causes horrific burns if it comes in contact with the skin, over crowded refugee camps in Gaza. Medics and human rights groups are also reporting that they are seeing injuries distinctive of another controversial weapon, Dense Inert Metal Explosive, known as DIME, that was designed by the US Air Force in 2006. Those struck by the weapon who survive suffer severe mutilations and internal injuries. We go to the Gaza border to speak with Marc Garlasco of Human Rights Watch and to Norway to speak with Dr. Mads Gilbert, who just returned from the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. He says Gaza is “truly a scene from Dante’s Inferno.”

As the assault on Gaza enters its 19th day, Israel is coming under increasing criticism for its possible use of banned and experimental munitions.

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of illegally firing white phosphorous over crowded refugee camps in Gaza.

White Phosphorous shells cause horrific burns if they come in contact with the skin. Under international law, phosphorus is allowed as a smokescreen to cover troop movements and protect soldiers, or to be used for illumination, but is considered illegal if used against people.

In addition to white phosphorous, medics and human rights groups are reporting that they are seeing injuries distinctive of another controversial weapon. The munition, called DIME, for Dense Inert Metal Explosive, was designed to create a powerful blast over a small area. It was developed by the US Air Force in 2006.

http://www.democracynow.org/2009/1/14/white_phosphorous_and_dense_inert_metal

Audio, video at link.