BEIRUT – Lebanon’s Health Minister Firass Abiad reported that 37 people were killed and over 3,500 were wounded in a series of explosions across the country. The explosions were caused by hand-held devices used by Hezbollah members, in what officials blame on Israel.
Deadliest Day Since Conflict Began
On Wednesday, 25 people lost their lives, adding to the 12 deaths from Tuesday. This makes it the deadliest day since the cross-border fighting between Hezbollah and Israel began nearly a year ago. The total death toll now stands at 37, with thousands more injured.
The explosions occurred in Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, as well as in Beirut and eastern parts of the country. Hand-held radios and paging devices used by Hezbollah members suddenly detonated, causing widespread chaos and destruction.
Two Days of Deadly Explosions
On Tuesday, the first wave of explosions took place. Hundreds of paging devices exploded simultaneously across Lebanon, killing 12 people, including two children, and wounding up to 2,800 others. This unprecedented attack shocked the nation and raised tensions between Hezbollah and Israel.
On Wednesday, another wave of explosions hit, killing 25 more people and injuring over 450. Most of the casualties were in Hezbollah-dominated areas. According to a source close to Hezbollah, walkie-talkies carried by its members suddenly exploded, causing the fatalities.
Hezbollah and Israel Tensions Rise
The Lebanese government and Hezbollah have blamed Israel for the attacks, though Israel has not commented on the allegations. This new escalation comes after nearly a year of ongoing conflict between the two sides. The sudden nature of the attacks and the use of communications devices have intensified the situation.
The explosions have not only claimed lives but also shaken the security of Hezbollah’s strongholds in Lebanon. As the militant group grapples with the aftermath, the tension between Hezbollah and Israel is expected to rise.
International Concerns
The international community has taken notice of the escalating situation. The White House issued a statement urging all parties to avoid further escalation. The statement warned that any rise in violence could destabilize the already fragile situation in the region.
Lebanon has been facing political and economic challenges for years, and this new wave of violence adds to the country’s growing instability. The explosion of Hezbollah’s communication devices is seen as a new form of attack, raising fears of more complex and dangerous assaults in the future.
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Government’s Response
Health Minister Firass Abiad has been actively providing updates on the situation. He confirmed the rising death toll and injuries, stressing that medical facilities across Lebanon are overwhelmed. Emergency services are working tirelessly to handle the large number of casualties.
Lebanese authorities are investigating the explosions and their link to Israel, while Hezbollah is expected to retaliate if the accusations are confirmed. The situation remains tense, with further developments expected as the investigation continues.
Future Uncertain for Lebanon
As Lebanon struggles to cope with the aftermath of the deadly explosions, the future remains uncertain. The possibility of further violence looms large as both Hezbollah and Israel maintain silence on the accusations. With thousands wounded and dozens killed, Lebanon finds itself at a critical juncture, hoping to avoid further bloodshed while seeking justice for those affected.
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