Lebanon Blasts Update: The death toll from a second wave of exploding Hezbollah devices in Lebanon has climbed to 20, sending the Iran-backed group in disarray on Thursday.
The deadly explosions that swept through Hezbollah strongholds across Lebanon, mounted pressure on its leader to exact revenge for the operation likely carried out by Israel.
The attacks killed at least 32 people in two days, including two children, and wounded more than 3,000 others, according to Lebanese Health Ministry figures.
Israel has not commented on the unprecedented operation that saw Hezbollah operatives’ walkie-talkies and pagers exploding in supermarkets, at funerals, and on streets.
In a reference to Israel’s border with Lebanon, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said, “The center of gravity is moving northward,” as he stated, “We are at the start of a new phase in the war.”
Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas, has been engaged in near-daily clashes with Israel along its northern border, leading to casualties and displacements on both sides. Hezbollah vowed revenge against Israel for the attacks.
‘Wider war’
Lebanese and Iranian officials expressed concerns over the escalating violence, with Lebanon’s Foreign Minister stating the assaults could lead to a “wider war.” The White House urged all parties to avoid further escalation in the conflict.
‘Sabotaged at source’
The explosive incidents involving Hezbollah operatives’ electronics were suspected to be the result of sabotage on the devices, possibly during the manufacturing process. Investigations revealed that the pagers had been booby-trapped, leading to the tragic consequences.