A wave of explosions erupted across Lebanon on Tuesday, injuring thousands after pagers allegedly used by Hezbollah unexpectedly detonated. The coordinated blasts reportedly left at least 12 people dead, including two children, and injured around 2,800 individuals, many severely.
The origins of the attack, characterized as highly sophisticated, remain under investigation, though Hezbollah has placed the blame on Israel. Israeli officials have yet to comment on the allegations.
Here is what we know so far.
When and Where Did It Happen?
The explosions occurred in various locations, including Beirut, around 15:45 local time on Tuesday. Witnesses described hearing noises resembling fireworks before witnessing actual explosions.
Footage apparently captured an explosion happening in a man’s trouser pocket while he was at a store. Reports indicate that US officials suggested the pagers received messages from Hezbollah’s leadership before the explosions occurred, hinting at a potential remote trigger.
The horrifying situation saw a flood of individuals arriving at hospitals, causing mass chaos and confusion throughout Lebanon.
How Did the Pagers Explode?
Analysts were left perplexed by the scale of the attack, particularly as Hezbollah is known for its stringent security protocols. Some speculated that a hack could have led to battery overheating, causing the devices to explode, although this theory is disputed.
Others believe that a supply chain attack may have occurred, with the pagers being tampered with during production or transit. If true, this would imply a highly coordinated operation.
Lebanese security officials indicated that the pagers might have been packed with explosives before entering the country, further complicating the investigation.
Victim Details
Reports indicate that among the deceased were relatives of Hezbollah officials. Additionally, Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon sustained minor injuries in the blasts, while Hezbollah’s leader was reportedly unharmed.
Lebanese health authorities have stated that most injuries affected hands and faces, with multiple amputations reported. Many of those injured were civilians, complicating the identification of any affiliation with Hezbollah. Reports also emerged of injuries in neighboring Syria.
Who is Responsible?
No group has yet accepted responsibility for the explosions. However, Lebanese authorities, including Prime Minister Najib Mikati, have described the detonations as a serious breach of sovereignty, pointing fingers at Israel.
Hezbollah’s statement accused Israel of targeting civilians and vowed that the aggressor would face consequences. Unnamed US and Israeli sources suggested the attack might have been part of a larger strategy targeting Hezbollah.
Expert analysis suggests that Israel’s involvement seems plausible given the nature of the attacks.
Why Does Hezbollah Use Pagers?
Hezbollah traditionally uses pagers as a communication tool to avoid detection by adversaries. The group’s switch from mobile phones comes as a result of vulnerabilities exposed in past operations.
Reports indicate that a new model of pager involved in the explosion had not been previously used by Hezbollah, raising concerns about its security.
Investigations into the manufacturer indicated an ongoing audit of the company involved in producing the devices, highlighting the broader implications of the incident for Hezbollah’s operational security.
Will the Hezbollah-Israel Conflict Escalate?
Hezbollah remains closely aligned with Iran and has been engaged in ongoing tensions with Israel. The recent explosions come amidst ongoing military strife along their shared border.
While both sides have generally tried to manage conflicts without escalating to full-scale warfare, fears are mounting that this incident could provoke further hostilities, especially considering Hezbollah’s threats in response to the blasts.
