Beirut – Hezbollah, the militant group in Lebanon, has been left stunned by Israel's latest aggressive moves. Following recent pager explosions, the group suffered another blow when explosions in their walkie-talkies resulted in the deaths of 14 people and injuries to at least 450. Reports suggest that similar pager explosions were reported in Syria as well. Lebanon's state news agency, NNA, confirmed the walkie-talkie explosions and reported nine fatalities with 300 injured.
Fires Erupt Across Homes and Vehicles
According to the Lebanese newspaper *L'Orient Today*, an earlier pager explosion on Tuesday had already claimed 12 lives and injured around 2,800 people. On Wednesday evening, at around 5 PM, explosions targeting Hezbollah’s walkie-talkies began. Lebanon’s Ministry of Health confirmed the fatalities and injuries, stating that fires broke out in 60 homes and shops, 15 cars, and dozens of motorcycles across the Nabatieh region due to the blasts.
A New Phase of Warfare
Beirut Today reported that thousands of walkie-talkies exploded in homes and vehicles across multiple locations. Israel's technology-driven attacks have left Lebanon in shock. Acting Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati confirmed the walkie-talkie explosions during the evening. *Beirut Today* cited Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's remarks, shared through Israeli military radio, indicating that Israel is now focusing its attention on the north and entering a new phase of warfare.
Walkie-Talkie Explodes During a Funeral
According to Beirut Today, the explosions began at 5:00 PM, causing fires in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Dahieh, and more than 20 towns in southern Lebanon. In Dahieh, one of the explosions occurred during the funeral of a victim of the previous day's pager blasts.
All Devices Belonged to Hezbollah
As reported by The New York Times, all of the walkie-talkies that exploded were in the possession of Hezbollah members. The militant group has vowed revenge, although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in the pager attacks. However, officials in Lebanon and the United States have accused Israel of being responsible for the explosions.
Israel’s Warning: Hezbollah Will Pay a Higher Price Every Time
Statements on the Israeli Defense Forces’ official social media and website reflect the intentions of Israeli Chief of Staff General Herzi Halevi. After visiting the Northern Command, Halevi approved both defensive and offensive strategies. Addressing his commanders, Halevi emphasized that Israel possesses advanced technological capabilities that have yet to be fully deployed. He warned that Hezbollah would face increasing consequences at every stage of the conflict. Israel remains committed to eliminating Hamas in Gaza and securing the release of hostages.
Halevi’s remarks hold added significance following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s vow to return thousands of displaced residents from northern border areas to their homes. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, while touring the Ramat David Air Force Base, praised the collaboration between Shin Bet, Mossad, and the Israel Defense Forces, further strengthening Israel’s preparedness for the ongoing conflict.
This latest development in the Israel-Hezbollah confrontation signals escalating tensions, with Lebanon’s southern region facing the brunt of this technological warfare.
