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Multiple Explosions Hit Walkie Talkies Devices in Lebanon Amid Alleged Israeli Sabotage

It appears that Western communication devices can be weaponized and detonated remotely. How safe are innocent civilians relying on Western-made technology?

Multiple explosions hit Hezbollah communication devices across Lebanon, linked to alleged Israeli sabotage, escalating regional tensions.

In a serious escalation of tensions, a series of simultaneous explosions occurred across Lebanon on Wednesday, involving walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah, the paramilitary group. The blasts are believed to be part of an ongoing Israeli sabotage operation, which allegedly began on Tuesday when a similar incident claimed 12 lives and left thousands injured.

According to initial reports from Lebanese media, including the National News Agency, at least three individuals were killed in Wednesday’s explosions. The al-Hadath TV network provided a higher toll of injuries, estimating that at least 100 people were affected. A Lebanese security official, speaking to Reuters, confirmed that the explosions involved handheld radios commonly used by Hezbollah members. These blasts were not limited to Beirut but also occurred across southern Lebanon, a region under Hezbollah’s control.

One of the most notable incidents on Wednesday occurred during a funeral procession for four people who had perished the previous day. The four individuals had died when their pagers detonated, in an earlier explosion linked to the same operation, according to Reuters.

The previous day’s explosion on Tuesday was far more devastating. At least 12 people, including two children, were killed, and over 3,000 were injured when pagers, considered a low-tech but secure method of communication, unexpectedly exploded. Lebanese security authorities attributed these detonations to Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency. This claim was supported by both American and Israeli sources who told Axios that Mossad had, in fact, rigged the pagers to explode several months earlier.

Mossad’s intention was reportedly to use the explosive devices in case of an all-out conflict with Hezbollah. However, as one U.S. official told *Axios*, “They decided to detonate them earlier, fearing that the explosive charges could be discovered.”

Further investigations revealed that the radios that exploded on Wednesday had been purchased at the same time as the pagers involved in Tuesday’s deadly incidents. A security source told Reuters that the walkie-talkies were procured in bulk, a factor that ties Wednesday’s explosions directly to the previous day’s sabotage.

The destruction caused by these blasts was widely shared on social media, with video footage depicting vehicles torn apart and fires blazing at several explosion sites.

Hezbollah’s actions in recent months have been part of an ongoing low-intensity military campaign against Israel. This campaign began after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) started bombing Gaza nearly a year ago. Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has openly stated that the group’s efforts are designed to keep Israeli forces occupied near the Israel-Lebanon border. However, incidents like Tuesday and Wednesday’s explosions have heightened concerns that the region could be on the brink of full-scale war.

In response to Wednesday’s incidents, Hezbollah issued a strongly worded statement, accusing Israel of responsibility: “We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression.”

Shortly after this statement, Hezbollah retaliated by launching a barrage of rockets at Israeli military positions. This occurred only hours before the explosion of their radios, further escalating the situation.

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Written by Siphiwe Dlamini

Name: Siphiwe Dlamini
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Occupation: Journalist and Political Analyst

Profile:
Siphiwe Dlamini is a dynamic and passionate journalist and political analyst based in Johannesburg, South Africa. With a unique blend of academic expertise and practical experience, Siphiwe has established himself as a trusted voice in the field of journalism, particularly in political reporting and analysis.

Education:
Siphiwe holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, where he honed his skills in investigative reporting, news writing, and multimedia storytelling. Additionally, he pursued a degree in Political Science, deepening his understanding of political systems, international relations, and policy analysis. This interdisciplinary educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the socio-political landscape, enabling him to provide insightful commentary on current affairs.

Career:
Throughout his career, Siphiwe has demonstrated a commitment to journalistic integrity and a relentless pursuit of truth. He has worked for several prominent media outlets, including leading newspapers, television networks, and online platforms. His reporting has covered a wide range of topics, from domestic politics and social issues to international affairs and human rights.

Siphiwe's journalistic endeavors have taken him to the frontlines of major events, where he has provided on-the-ground coverage and in-depth analysis. His ability to contextualize complex political developments and communicate them effectively to diverse audiences has earned him recognition and respect within the industry.

Beyond his work in traditional media, Siphiwe is also actively engaged in public discourse, participating in panel discussions, debates, and academic conferences. He is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and democratic values through his journalism.

Expertise:
As a political analyst, Siphiwe possesses a keen analytical mind and a nuanced understanding of political dynamics. He is adept at dissecting political rhetoric, evaluating policy proposals, and forecasting future trends. His insightful commentary helps citizens navigate the complexities of governance and make informed decisions about their collective future.

Siphiwe's expertise extends beyond mere reporting; he is also deeply involved in advocacy efforts aimed at promoting press freedom, defending human rights, and fostering democratic governance. Through his work, he strives to amplify marginalized voices, hold power to account, and contribute to the advancement of a more just and equitable society.

In his pursuit of excellence, Siphiwe remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of journalism and serving as a catalyst for positive change in his community and beyond. With his unwavering commitment to truth, integrity, and social justice, he continues to inspire and empower others to engage critically with the world around them.

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