Lebanon president says Israel uses phosphorous arms

“According to the Geneva Convention, when they use phosphorous bombs and laser bombs, is that allowed against civilians and children?” President Emile Lahoud asked on France’s RFI radio.

An Israeli military spokeswoman said arms used in Lebanon did not contravene international norms.

“Everything the Israeli Defence Forces are using is legitimate,” the spokeswoman said.

Lahoud gave no details but said the United Nations had to take concrete action to force Israel to stop its assault.

“The massacre must be stopped as soon as possible. Afterwards we can talk about everything,” he said. “A decision has to be taken so that there is an immediate ceasefire.”

Lahoud’s comments came as U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice flew to Beirut to seek a “sustainable” ceasefire in Lebanon.