Hundreds of modified pagers used by Hezbollah members exploded across Lebanon and parts of Syria on Tuesday, killing at least 11 people and injuring over 3,000. has accused Israel of orchestrating the explosions, describing them as a “serious violation of Lebanese sovereignty.”
The blasts, which took place around 3:30 p.m. local time, occurred in Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, Beirut’s southern suburbs, and the Bekaa Valley. Hezbollah has claimed that the devices, which were newly acquired and modified to include explosives, were tampered with by Israel. According to a New York Times report, Israel allegedly placed two ounces of explosive material inside each pager, which could be remotely detonated.
As the explosions rippled across Hezbollah-controlled areas, Israel’s military remained silent on its involvement. However, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff, insisted that Israel is ready “for attack and defense in all arenas,” without directly addressing the accusations.
Hezbollah fighters were reportedly targeted by a message that appeared to come from their leadership, triggering the deadly detonations. Videos shared on social media showed widespread panic as civilians rushed to help the wounded, with ambulances responding to the chaotic scenes.
Taiwanese manufacturer Gold Apollo, whose pagers were believed to be involved in the blasts, has denied any connection to the explosive devices. “They are not our products from beginning to end,” said the company’s head, Hsu Chin-kuang, in response to reports linking their pagers to the explosions.
The United States also distanced itself from the incident, with State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller affirming that the U.S. had no prior knowledge or involvement in the attacks.
Hezbollah is conducting a security investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosions, while Lebanese hospitals remain on high alert to treat the thousands of injured. With tensions high along the Lebanon-Israel border, Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate, escalating fears of further conflict in the region.
