In a chilling echo of the previous day’s events, Lebanon was struck by a second wave of explosions originating from wireless communication devices on September 18, 2024.
The explosions left at least 20 dead and injured over 450, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. This adds to the 8 fatalities and thousands of injuries a day earlier when pagers exploded.
The explosions of walkie-talkies and other communication devices were spread across Beirut’s southern suburbs, the Bekaa Valley, and south Lebanon, areas known to be Hezbollah strongholds.
One particularly harrowing incident unfolded during a funeral for victims of the initial wave of pager explosions, where the sound of detonations once again pierced the air, causing chaos among mourners.
Medical professionals reported treating severe injuries, particularly to the eyes and brain, due to the proximity of the devices when they detonated. Emergency services across Lebanon have been stretched thin, responding to multiple explosion sites simultaneously.
How did they explode?
The devices, believed to have been covertly modified, detonated in various settings, from homes to vehicles, leading to fires in residential areas, shops, and cars.
The attack pattern suggested a sophisticated operation, possibly involving the infiltration of supply chains to introduce explosive components into what were otherwise ordinary communication tools.
Hezbollah, the militant group predominantly affected by these incidents, reported the death of several members, including a 16-year-old. The group retaliated by targeting Israeli positions, indicating a rapid escalation in regional tensions.
Which company’s products exploded?
At least some wireless communication devices that exploded reportedly carried the label IC-V82, a product once manufactured by the Japanese company ICOM.
The company’s website says that the said model is discontinued, and any available product with the label of a discontinued model is likely to be a counterfeit. However, the manuals for the discontinued models are available on the website.
However, the company has a webpage dedicated to identifying counterfeit products. Following the explosions in Lebanon, the company said it would investigate the matter.
International reaction
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s announcement of a ‘new phase in the war’ following these events has raised concerns of further military engagement. The statement, coupled with the redeployment of Israeli forces to the north, suggests a strategic shift in response to the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah.
The method of attack, using everyday devices as weapons, has sparked discussions on the ethics and legality of such warfare tactics, especially concerning civilian casualties and the indiscriminate nature of the explosions.