Handheld Pagers Explode in Lebanon and Syria, Killing 8 and Wounding Hundreds
Sophisticated Remote Attack Points to Israel
Hundreds of handheld pagers exploded near simultaneously across Lebanon and in parts of Syria on Tuesday, killing at least eight people, including members of the militant group Hezbollah and a girl, and wounding the Iranian ambassador, government and Hezbollah officials said.
Officials pointed the finger at Israel in what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack that wounded more than 2,700 people at a time of rising tensions across the Lebanon border. The Israeli military declined to comment.
Hezbollah Official Reveals Details of Attack
A Hezbollah official who spoke on condition of anonymity told The Associated Press that the new brand of handheld pagers used by the group first heated up, then exploded, killing at least two of its members and wounding others.
Casualties and Response
Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said at least eight people were killed and 2,750 wounded — 200 of them critically.
Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.
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Hezbollah Leader Warns of Cellphone Risks
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah previously warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying that they could be used by Israel to track their movements and to carry out targeted strikes.
Government Response
Lebanon’s Health Ministry called on all hospitals to be on alert to take in emergency patients and for people who own pagers to get away from them. It also asked health workers to avoid using wireless devices.
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Lithium Battery Risks
Lithium batteries, when overheated, can smoke, melt and even catch on fire. Rechargeable lithium batteries are used in consumer products ranging from cellphones and laptops to electric cars. Lithium battery fires can burn up to 590 C (1,100 F).
Conclusion
The incident highlights the risks of lithium batteries and the need for caution when using wireless devices. It also underscores the ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel and the potential for further conflict in the region.
FAQs
Q: What happened in the attack?
A: Hundreds of handheld pagers exploded in Lebanon and parts of Syria, killing at least eight people and wounding hundreds.
Q: Who is suspected of carrying out the attack?
A: Israel is suspected of carrying out the attack, although it has not officially commented.
Q: What is the significance of the attack?
A: The attack highlights the ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel and the potential for further conflict in the region.
Q: What are the risks of lithium batteries?
A: Lithium batteries can overheat, smoke, melt, and even catch on fire when used improperly.