On Tuesday, a series of coordinated explosions involving pagers rocked Lebanon, injuring over a thousand people and resulting in at least three deaths. The blasts occurred around 3:30 p.m. local time (6 p.m. IST) and affected Hezbollah strongholds across the country, including the southern suburbs of Beirut. Among the injured is Mojtaba Amani, Iran’s Ambassador to Lebanon, who, according to reports, is conscious and not in immediate danger. The explosions also reached parts of Syria, injuring four people in Damascus.
Details of the Attack and Victims
The attacks specifically targeted Hezbollah, a group recognized as a terrorist organization by both the United States and the European Union. The explosions reportedly caused significant casualties, including the death of a 10-year-old girl, the daughter of a Hezbollah member, and the son of a Hezbollah MP. Saudi news channel Al Hadath confirmed the death of the son of Ali Ammar, a Hezbollah representative in the Lebanese Parliament.
Hezbollah’s Response and Investigation
Hezbollah has described the incident as a major security breach. In a statement, the group detailed that multiple pager devices used by its members exploded simultaneously. The group has initiated extensive investigations to determine the cause and method of the attacks. Hezbollah has urged the public to disregard rumors and misinformation, which they claim could be part of psychological warfare against them. Despite their claims, Israel has not yet commented on the incident.
Security and Health Measures in Response
Lebanon’s National News Agency termed the explosions an “unprecedented enemy security incident.” The health ministry has placed hospitals on high alert, and the Lebanese Red Cross has deployed over 30 ambulances to assist in the affected areas. The explosions resulted in numerous injuries, with ongoing efforts to provide medical care and manage the aftermath of the blasts.
Broader Context and Tensions
This attack comes amid heightened tensions between Hezbollah and Israel. Since the start of the Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023, Hezbollah has been involved in frequent exchanges of fire with Israeli forces. The timing of the pager explosions and the accusations against Israel reflect the escalating conflict in the region. Israel’s security cabinet recently updated its war objectives to include the safe return of displaced residents in northern Israel, which further intensifies the current situation.
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More than 30 Ambulances from the #LebaneseRedCross are responding to multiple bombings across South Lebanon, Bekaa Valley and the Southern Suburbs of Beirut . All our stations across Mount Lebanon and Beirut are on high alert! pic.twitter.com/oUifZMARMw
— Lebanese Red Cross (@RedCrossLebanon) September 17, 2024