Simultaneous Pagers Explosion Injures Hundreds of Hezbollah Fighters

On Tuesday, a serious incident unfolded in Lebanon as multiple handheld communication pagers exploded among Hezbollah members, leading to numerous injuries. Lebanese state media has reported that hundreds of Hezbollah fighters and medics were affected, although initial reports do not confirm any fatalities.

A senior military intelligence source claims the detonations originated from devices used by Hezbollah, suspecting an Israeli attack behind the explosions. An anonymous Hezbollah official pointed out this incident as potentially the “biggest security breach” the group has faced.

Hezbollah, a significant political and militant entity in Lebanon, often projects itself as a defender against Israel. Reports suggest advanced technology was employed to set off the pagers, with dozens of injuries being recorded across various locations.

The chaos prompted ambulances to race through the southern suburbs of Beirut, while witnesses noted that explosions continued for over half an hour after the first blasts. Security sources indicate the detonations also occurred in southern Lebanon.

Military analyst Elijah Magnier shared that Hezbollah typically relies on pagers for secure communication, suggesting that these devices may have been tampered with before distribution. He remarked that the psychological impact of these explosions could affect the group considerably.

A Hezbollah official confirmed that at least 150 individuals were wounded from the pager explosions, attributing the incident to a “security operation” targeting their devices. He also mentioned concerns over lithium batteries in the new pagers, which can be hazardous when overheated.

Eyewitness accounts captured the aftermath, with visuals of injured individuals on the ground in Beirut, particularly near their pockets where the pagers were carried. Hezbollah has been cautious, with its leader Hassan Nasrallah advising members against using cellphones due to tracking risks from Israel.

This incident coincided with recent expressions of solidarity between Hamas and Hezbollah, as Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar thanked Nasrallah for his support amid ongoing conflicts with Israel.

In recent weeks, Hezbollah has escalated tensions by targeting Israeli military positions, prompting significant retaliatory actions which have resulted in substantial casualties on both sides.

This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.