White phosphorus munitions damage land in ways that undermine food, water, and livelihoods.Fires and burning particles destroy crops, orchards, and pasture on contact. Remaining particles and phosphoric-acid residues acidify soil, lock up nutrients, and reduce fertility for months or years. Farmers then face lower yields or land they cannot safely work. Unburnt fragments persist especially in wet or buried soil and can leach into groundwater. Contaminated water and soil raise risks of phosphorus compounds and associated metals entering wells and irrigation systems. People and animals that drink the water or eat produce grown on it face potential toxicity. Livestock that graze contaminated pasture or drink from affected sources can ingest particles, leading to poisoning and death. Dead or sick animals further cut meat and milk supplies.The combined result is reduced local food production, higher prices, and greater dependence on outside aid. Rural communities that rely on farming lose income and face long-term health and economic strain from both the initial destruction and lingering contamination.