Explosions in Lebanon kill 37, heighten Middle East tensions
Hezbollah vows retaliation after deadly explosions in Lebanon
Tensions in the Middle East are escalating after explosions in Lebanon killed at least 37 people and injured nearly 3,000. Among the dead were 25 members of Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran and allied with Hamas, which has been engaged in conflict in Gaza since October 7. Hezbollah has accused Israel of causing the explosions.
The Israeli Army reported on Thursday that they targeted hundreds of sites in Lebanon, including rocket launchers and other terrorist infrastructure. These strikes have heightened fears of a broader war in the region. Hezbollah admitted the attack inflicted significant damage on their group through the destruction of communication devices.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, in his first address following the attacks, condemned the incidents as crossing “all red lines” and vowed retaliation. He labelled the attacks a “massacre” and an “act of war,” warning Tel Aviv of severe consequences. Nasrallah accused Israel of violating all norms, laws, and morals.
❗In Lebanon, even kitchen appliances, car radios, solar panels, fingerprint locks and similar electronics have begun to explode.
Scooter and car devices are catching fire while moving.
7 dead and about 150 injured reported pic.twitter.com/UdMKTUpTaG
— Nothing to see (@Wagnersfamily) September 18, 2024
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated their military actions against Hezbollah would persist. He mentioned the new phase of the conflict brings both opportunities and risks, asserting that Hezbollah feels targeted and that Israel’s military operations will continue.
The United States revealed that Israel had informed Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin about an impending military operation in Lebanon but did not provide specifics. The US was not forewarned about the second wave of attacks targeting walkie-talkies. The US maintains a significant military presence in the Middle East, including about 40,000 troops, numerous warships, and Air Force fighter jet squadrons. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh expressed confidence in their ability to protect US forces and potentially defend Israel if necessary.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Guardian. The article highlights Lebanon’s shock and fear following a pager attack, amidst ongoing tensions with Israel, emphasizing Hezbollah’s resilience and the nation’s deepening humanitarian crisis. (Read more)
- NBC News: Israeli military strikes Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, sparking a new phase of war after walkie-talkie blasts and escalating regional tensions. (Read more)
- **CNN** reports on Lebanon’s devastating explosions targeting Hezbollah devices, killing at least 20 and injuring 450, with Israel implicated but not commenting, marking a new phase of warfare. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What caused the recent rise in tensions in the Middle East?
Explosions of pagers and walkie-talkies in Lebanon killed 37 people and wounded 3,000, escalating tensions.
Who were among the casualties in the Lebanon explosions?
25 members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group were among those killed.
How did Hezbollah react to the attacks on their communication devices?
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah called the attacks a ‘massacre’ and promised retribution against Israel.
What has been Israel’s response to the conflict with Hezbollah?
Israel’s Army struck hundreds of targets in Lebanon, including rocket launchers and terrorist infrastructure.
Did the US have prior knowledge of the attacks in Lebanon?
The US was informed of an operation but not given details of the second wave of attacks.
