A series of pager explosions linked to Hezbollah fighters erupted across Lebanon and Syria, killing 11 people and injuring hundreds more. The blasts, which began at 3:30 p.m. local time in southern Beirut, shocked both nations and quickly spread panic as they continued for over an hour. Videos and photos of the explosions circulated widely on social media, capturing the chaos as people reacted to the sudden detonations.
Key Locations Targeted: Hezbollah Strongholds
The explosions primarily affected areas that are considered Hezbollah strongholds, including the southern Beirut suburb of Daniyeh and the eastern Bekaa Valley. These regions have historically been linked to the militant group, making them prime locations for the devastating blasts. According to witnesses cited by Reuters, the explosions were heard up until at least 4:30 p.m., intensifying concerns across these densely populated areas.
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Injured people arrived at the hospitals in Lebanon
Among them is the ambassador of Iran in Lebanon
who works in the service of HezbollahAttached is a video of a mystery explosion
On the Hizbullah man’s radios👇 pic.twitter.com/sHquZ97Lmt
— tzachi dado צחי דדו 🎗️ (@UsBnnxVURfS4lPJ) September 17, 2024
Impact on Civilians and Fighters
Eyewitness videos shared on social media depicted the horrifying aftermath, with many people seen suffering severe injuries. Footage from hospitals showed victims with facial wounds, missing fingers, and gaping injuries around their hips—where the pagers were likely worn. While the blast radius was reportedly contained, primarily affecting individuals near or handling the devices, the explosions caused substantial personal harm.
The damage appeared limited to those carrying the pagers, with no significant structural destruction or large-scale fires reported. CCTV footage from supermarkets analyzed by Reuters indicated that the blasts did not lead to widespread damage, with the detonation affecting mainly the pager-wearers.
The Mystery of the Explosions: Israeli Cyberattack?
Although no official explanation for the explosions has been released, the government of Lebanon labeled the incident as an “Israeli cyberattack.” However, further details were not provided. Israel’s military has remained silent on the matter, offering no confirmation or denial of involvement.
The United States, meanwhile, issued a statement through the State Department, clarifying that it was gathering information on the explosions and that Washington had no role in the incident.
As investigators piece together the sequence of events, media reports have shed light on potential causes, noting that the explosions might have been triggered by pagers ringing, which caused fighters to check their screens or handle the devices, resulting in the detonations.
Widespread Reaction and Rising Tensions
The explosion of pagers in these Hezbollah strongholds has only added to the region’s already volatile atmosphere. The incident has left civilians and fighters in shock, with many questioning whether more attacks are imminent. While the precise motives and methods behind the explosions remain unclear, the blasts have certainly escalated tensions in both Lebanon and Syria, where Hezbollah continues to play a major role in political and military affairs.
As more footage and information emerge, the international community remains on high alert, awaiting further clarification from both Hezbollah and regional governments.
