Lebanon: Explosions of Communication Devices Kill 20, Injure Over 450

Beirut, The Gulf Observer: At least 20 people have been killed and more than 450 injured following a series of explosions involving communication devices reportedly used by Hezbollah across southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

“The new wave of walkie-talkie explosions killed 20 people and wounded more than 450,” the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

Lebanese state media reported that the wireless devices exploded in the hands of users in various locations throughout the country. According to sources cited by Reuters, the devices involved were hand-held radios, distinct from the pagers that caused similar incidents the day before.

Lebanese state media also identified the devices as Icom radios, widely used for communication in the region. The explosions have raised concerns about the safety of these devices, with authorities and security forces investigating the cause of the incidents.

Further details on the investigation are awaited as Lebanon grapples with the aftermath of these tragic explosions.