Topic: White Phosphorus

Reports on the escalating conflict in Gaza, with U.S. officials expressing concern over the use of "dumb bombs" and high civilian casualties. The Biden administration is reportedly unlikely to grant Israel's request for white phosphorus shells due to the horrific burns they cause.

Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! reported on President Zelensky's accusations that Russia is using white phosphorus munitions. The report notes that the U.S. military has a long history of using the substance, nicknamed "Whiskey Pete," in conflicts ranging from Vietnam to Fallujah, Iraq.

A PBS NewsHour report features a commander from the Free Syrian Army claiming that Russian and Syrian jets are dropping barrel bombs, cluster bombs, and white phosphorus on civilians. John C. Dvorak disputes the technical possibility of jets dropping barrel bombs, which are typically deployed from helicopters. The hosts characterize the report as a "sales call" for more US weapons to be sent to Syrian rebels.

The hosts report on Israel's statement to the United Nations regarding the limited future use of white phosphorus. They recount the devastating physical effects of the chemical during the Gaza offensive and criticize its use as a "smoke screen" when it causes severe chemical burns.