Why did the U.S. military use white phosphoros in the beginning of the Iraq war?

Question

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=white+phosphoros&go=Go

Answer 1

It was admitted by the US that they use it as a weapon
"It was used as an incendiary weapon against enemy combatants," spokesman Lt Col Barry Venable told the BBC - though not against civilians, he said.
I would love to know how they know that its has not been used against civilans

Answer 2

Good question, how did they use it? what are the most common uses for white phosphorous in battle? There are those that believe your question insinuates sinister if not diabolical uses for the material. Similar to a petition that was passed around a while back to get companies to stop the use of dihydrogen monoxide.

(thanks henke)

Answer 3

Because willy pete is effective at clearing out buildings and it also acts like smoke and provides a smoke screen plus if you were to get some burning bits on you you have to scrape it off because you cant smother it as it makes its own O2

Answer 4

White phosphorus is used to 'mark' targets. That the insurgents inside the targets tended to scream and run out into the open was just a bonus.

Answer 5

The u.s. military uses white phosphorus to mark targets.

It does not use it as a weapon but even if it did, WAR IS HELL and the terrorists deserve it.

Answer 6

Why did Saddam use serin gas on his own countrymen

Answer 7

Why not? I also want then to bring the flamethrower back!

Answer 8

To psychologically frighten the hell out of the enemy.

Answer 9

Probably to destroy the enemy,dummy!

Answer 10

Because they are beyond reproach.... they claim the Iraqis are terrorists, but their actions have never stood close examination... can anybody argue with that??????????????