A powerful explosion of pager devices across Lebanon on Tuesday resulted in the deaths of 12 people. Nearly 3,000 people were injured, with many in critical care.
The blast, caused by the detonation of thousands of pager devices, is believed to have been part of an Israeli military operation aimed at Hezbollah’s communication networks.
For its part, Hezbollah released a statement on Wednesday expressing condolences for its members killed in the explosion. The group vowed retaliation, emphasizing its continued commitment to operations against Israel.
Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah is expected make a speech on Thursday at 5 PM.
Health Minister
In other developments, Caretaker Health Minister Firas Abiad inspected hospitals on Wednesday, following an earlier visit on Tuesday evening.
During this second hospital tour, he visited various facilities, including Makassed Hospital, Hôtel Dieu de France, and Saint George Hospital in Hadath.
Abiad ensured that the hospitals were equipped with the necessary resources to treat the injured effectively.
He also praised Iraq for its prompt assistance, with medical teams and supplies that arrived on Wednesday morning to support Lebanon’s overwhelmed healthcare system.
The minister is expected to hold a press conference at 1 PM to provide further updates on the situation.
Iranian Ambassador
The Iranian Ambassador to Lebanon Mojtaba Amani’s injuries, sustained in the explosion, sparked widespread rumors about his condition. Although initial reports suggested that Amani had lost one eye, the Iranian Embassy in Beirut denied these claims, stating that rumors about his health were unfounded.
Video footage had shown Amani being rushed to the hospital with bandaged eyes, adding to the speculation. Iranian authorities maintain that he is recovering from his injuries.
UN Reaction
UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, condemned the attack, urging restraint and emphasizing the need to protect civilians.
She deplored the attack, reminding all “concerned actors that civilians are not a target and must be protected at all times,” emphasizing that “even one civilian casualty is one too many.”
The Special Coordinator concluded her statement by emphasizing the urgency of restoring calm and calling on all concerned actors to prioritize stability, as “the stakes are too high.”
