A series of deadly explosions swept through Lebanon, resulting in 20 fatalities and 450 injuries from walkie-talkies, just a day after a previous attack involving Hezbollah pagers killed 12 people and injured over 2,700. The situation has sparked widespread fear and anger, marking an unprecedented escalation in violence.
Details of the Walkie-Talkie Explosions
On Wednesday, a new wave of explosions occurred as handheld transceivers, specifically Icom V82 models, detonated in the hands of users. These explosions ignited fires in homes, vehicles, and shops across the country. The Lebanese Red Cross deployed 30 ambulances to the affected areas in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley to assist with the crisis.
The Lebanese Telecommunications Ministry confirmed that the exploding devices were Icom V82s, which had not been acquired through official channels and were unlicensed. Icom, the manufacturer, stated that while they previously shipped these models to the Middle East, production ceased about a decade ago. The company also highlighted that counterfeits of its products are prevalent in the market.
Context of the Attacks in Lebanon
These recent explosions follow a series of blasts on Tuesday, where Hezbollah pagers exploded, resulting in significant casualties. Initial reports indicated that these attacks were linked to Israel, which has not formally claimed responsibility but has faced accusations from both Hezbollah and Lebanese officials.
Lebanon’s Public Health Minister, Dr. Firas Abiad, noted the tragic loss of life in the recent explosions, including that of young children. In response to the ongoing crisis, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called for a United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the situation, labeling the incidents as a “collective crime.”
The U.S. government distanced itself from the recent attacks, emphasizing its commitment to diplomacy to prevent further escalation. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called for a thorough investigation into the attacks and their implications for U.S. foreign assistance, citing concerns over violations of international humanitarian law.
Military Readiness and Future Outlook
As tensions rise, Israeli Defense Forces have expressed heightened readiness along the border, indicating a potential shift in military strategy. The ongoing exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel since October have raised fears of a wider conflict, displacing thousands of civilians in both southern Lebanon and northern Israel.
The wave of deadly explosions in Lebanon represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel. As both sides prepare for possible further confrontations, the international community watches closely, hoping to avert a larger crisis in the already volatile region.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/pager-new-device-explosions-lebanon-hezbollah-rcna171637