What Is Tiny Device 'Pager' That Led To Wave Of Blasts In Lebanon Killing 9 Hezbollah Members

Beirut: At least nine Hezbollah members including an MP’s son were reportedly killed and around 2800 were injured after a wave of mysterious pager explosions rocked parts of Lebanon on Tuesday. The pagers explosion occurred mostly in Beirut’s southern suburbs and other regions. The mysterious incident has led to further escalation of tension with Israel, as Hezbollah has accused Israel of executing the deadly attack.

The report suggested that Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group blamed Israel for the simultaneous explosion of pagers used by group members, warning Israel would be punished. "We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression," the group said in a statement, adding that Israel "will certainly receive its just punishment for this sinful aggression".

Explosions Lasted About An Hour

A series of explosions lasting about an hour shocked residents in Beirut. Devices, primarily pagers, carried by Hezbollah members reportedly detonated, causing widespread panic.

The Lebanese health ministry reported that eight people were killed, with hundreds more wounded, including 200 in critical condition. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with some victims suffering severe injuries to their hands and limbs.

While the exact cause remains unknown, speculation points to overheating lithium batteries within the pagers as a possible trigger. However, some reports suggest the explosions could have been deliberately caused using advanced technology. Lebanon's government has urged citizens to avoid using similar devices until further investigation clarifies the risks.

Hezbollah officials have confirmed that many of the exploded devices belonged to their members. These pagers, once considered a secure mode of communication, appear to have been compromised. The explosions follow heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Just days earlier, Israeli officials hinted at possible military action against Hezbollah in response to ongoing clashes. The explosions have only deepened fears of further retaliation and escalating violence in the region.

As Lebanon reels from the shock, hospitals remain on high alert, treating the wounded and calling for blood donations. Lebanese authorities continue to investigate, with fears of additional strikes looming over the country.

What Is Pager?

The telecommunications devices, Pagers, also known as beepers, are wireless telecommunications devices that receive and display alphanumeric or voice messages. They were widely used in the 1980s but are still relied upon by specific groups, such as medical professionals. In Lebanon, Hezbollah members have also utilized pagers for internal communication, particularly due to their less traceable nature compared to cell phones.