Electronic device explosions in Lebanon raise safety concerns and tensions

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Two days of explosions involving electronic devices like walkie-talkies and pagers have raised concerns across Lebanon. The first incident on Tuesday, reportedly linked to Hezbollah, involved exploding pagers, resulting in 12 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries. On Wednesday, mobile phones, laptops, and solar energy cells exploded, killing 20 and injuring more than 450, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.

The explosions occurred in cities including Beirut, Baalbek, and Saida, prompting officials to carry out controlled detonations of suspicious devices. Event planner Maria Boustany, concerned about safety, switched her team from walkie-talkies to WhatsApp communication as a precaution.

Lebanese hospitals, particularly the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), were overwhelmed with patients. AUBMC’s chief medical officer, Salah Zeineldine, confirmed that while many remain critical, none were in life-threatening condition.

The incidents have heightened tensions between Hezbollah and Israel, with frequent cross-border skirmishes since October. As Israeli authorities consider military actions, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced the conflict had entered a “new phase.” Many in Lebanon are concerned about further attacks, with Hezbollah vowing retaliation.