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U.S. Journalist Abducted in Baghdad Amid Rising Security Fears

                                   FILE PHOTO: An aerial view of Baghdad An American journalist was kidnapped in central Baghdad, according to Iraqi police officials who reported the incident early Tuesday. The abduction occurred near a busy commercial district where foreign media workers often travel, underscoring ongoing concerns about the safety of international personnel operating in the region. Witnesses told authorities that armed men intercepted the journalist’s vehicle and forced them into another car before speeding away. Police have launched an investigation and are coordinating with federal security forces to track the kidnappers and determine the journalist’s whereabouts. No group has yet claimed responsibility, but officials say the method of the abduction resembles tactics used by organized militias and criminal networks active in the capital. U.S. diplomatic represe...

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Israel Accused of Using White Phosphorus on Residential Buildings in Lebanon

 

A global human rights group has accused Israel of using white phosphorus incendiary shells on residential buildings in at least five towns and villages in conflict-hit southern Lebanon. The report, published by Human Rights Watch (HRW), raises concerns about potential harm to civilians and violations of international law.

White phosphorus is a controversial substance that can set buildings on fire and burn human flesh down to the bone. Survivors face risks of infections and organ or respiratory failure, even from small burns. While Israel maintains that it uses white phosphorus only as a smokescreen and not to target civilians, the evidence suggests otherwise.

The HRW report includes interviews with residents in conflict-hit southern Lebanon and verifies images showing white phosphorus shells landing on residential buildings. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that at least 173 people have required medical care after exposure to white phosphorus.

This recent use of white phosphorus in Lebanon should prompt other countries to take action. HRW calls on the Lebanese government to allow the International Criminal Court to investigate and prosecute “grave international crimes” within Lebanon since October 2023.


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