3 months ago
17
A wave of mysterious
pager explosions
has rocked
Lebanon
, killing at least eight people and leaving over 2,700 wounded. The incidents, which took place on Tuesday across Beirut’s southern suburbs and other regions, have plunged the country into confusion as authorities scramble to determine the cause.
What are pagers?
Pagers, also known as beepers, are wireless telecommunications devices that receive and display alphanumeric or voice messages.
They were widely used in the 1980s but are still relied upon by specific groups, such as medical professionals. In Lebanon,
Hezbollah
members have also utilized pagers for internal communication, particularly due to their less traceable nature compared to cell phones.
Explosions leave Lebanon in shock
Beginning at 3:45 pm local time, a series of
explosions
lasting about an hour shocked residents in Beirut. Devices, primarily pagers, carried by Hezbollah members reportedly detonated, causing widespread panic.
The Lebanese health ministry reported that eight people were killed, with hundreds more wounded, including 200 in critical condition. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with some victims suffering severe injuries to their hands and limbs.
Hezbollah’s communication breach
Hezbollah officials have confirmed that many of the exploded devices belonged to their members. These pagers, once considered a secure mode of communication, appear to have been compromised.
It is suspected that Israeli forces, long engaged in conflict with Hezbollah, may have launched a covert operation targeting these devices, although
Israel
has not officially commented on the incident. A Hezbollah official called the detonations a "significant security breach."
Hezbollah blames Israel
Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group blamed Israel for the simultaneous explosion of pagers used by group members, warning Israel will be punished. "We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression," the group said in a statement reported Reuters, adding that Israel "will certainly receive its just punishment for this sinful aggression".
Potential causes and investigations
While the exact cause remains unknown, speculation points to overheating lithium batteries within the pagers as a possible trigger. However, some reports suggest the explosions could have been deliberately caused using advanced technology. Lebanon's government has urged citizens to avoid using similar devices until further investigation clarifies the risks.
Escalating tensions with Israel
The explosions follow heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Just days earlier, Israeli officials hinted at possible military action against Hezbollah in response to ongoing clashes. The explosions have only deepened fears of further retaliation and escalating violence in the region.
As Lebanon reels from the shock, hospitals remain on high alert, treating the wounded and calling for blood donations. Lebanese authorities continue to investigate, with fears of additional strikes looming over the country.
