The nation of Lebanon is gripped by fear and grief after a series of explosive attacks on communication devices left dozens dead and thousands injured.
At a Glance
- Two waves of sophisticated attacks targeted Hezbollah members using electronic devices in Lebanon.
- The first wave involved exploding pagers, killing at least 12 people and wounding thousands.
- The second wave of detonations killed at least 25 people and wounded over 600.
- Israel is widely believed to be behind the attacks, although the Israeli military has not commented.
- Devices used in the attacks included pagers, walkie-talkies, and solar energy systems.
Explosive Attacks in Lebanon
Two waves of sophisticated and deadly attacks have struck Lebanon, targeting the armed group Hezbollah. These attacks involved handheld communication devices that exploded, leading to devastation and widespread panic. The first wave occurred on Tuesday when pagers exploded, killing at least 12 people and injuring thousands. The damage extended to nearby buildings and infrastructure, exacerbating the chaotic aftermath.
The second wave followed on Wednesday, targeting more communication devices, including at a funeral, killing at least 25 people and wounding over 600. The community remains in shock, as the situation highlights the vulnerability of using such devices amidst growing tensions. Witnesses reported seeing smoke and small explosions emanating from individuals’ pockets, which only added to the terror and confusion.
BREAKING: Hezbollah’s radios explode in a second wave of remote detonated attacks across Lebanon.
For a group that thrives on fear, they’re getting a taste of their own medicine.
This marks another massive security breach against Hezbollah, with sources claiming this second… pic.twitter.com/m9tRYuLbYJ
— Hank ™ (@HANKonX) September 18, 2024
Israel Suspected, Military Remains Silent
While Israel is widely suspected to be behind the attacks, the Israeli military has not provided any public statements or comments. The nature of the attacks suggests a high level of sophistication, with small explosives built into the devices, likely indicating an operation requiring extensive intelligence and planning. Some speculations point towards counterfeit products and intermediary companies being used in the process.
Moreover, the origins of the devices remain unclear, with labels on exploded pagers pointing to models produced by manufacturers in Taiwan and Hungary. These firms have denied any responsibility. The Japanese company Icom, implicated with their walkie-talkie models, suggested that the devices might be counterfeit.
I’m deeply alarmed by reports that a large number of communication devices exploded across Lebanon & Syria, killing at least 11 people, including children, and injuring thousands.
All actors must exercise maximum restraint to avert any further escalation.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) September 18, 2024
Human Toll and Community Response
The humanitarian toll is staggering, with at least 32 deaths, including those of two children, and thousands injured. Survivors report severe physical injuries, including to the eyes and brain. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah condemned the attacks and vowed continued resistance. The violence has fostered a unique level of unity and resolve within the Lebanese community, even amidst widespread panic and uncertainty.
“I believe the number of casualties and the type of damage that has been done is humongous,” Nasrallah said. “Unfortunately, we were not able to save a lot of eyes, and unfortunately the damage is not limited to the eyes – some of them have damage in the brain in addition to any facial damage.”
Amid the chaos, many Lebanese citizens have been compelled to disconnect their electronic devices, fearing further explosions. The overarching concern remains the potential for more compromised devices and their impacts on unsuspecting civilians. As the conflict persists, the Lebanese people stand together, demonstrating resilience and hope in the face of ongoing adversity.
