Hezbollah Devices Explode Again In Lebanon Leaving 20 Dead And Escalating Israeli Conflict

The first series of explosions on Tuesday killed 12 and injured over 3000 people.

At least 20 people were killed and more than 450 injured after a second series of Hezbollah walkie-talkie communication devices exploded in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, September 19.

ALSO READ: 9 Dead, Thousands Injured In Lebanon Pager Explosions

The blasts followed similar detonations of Hezbollah's pager communication devices the previous day, raising concerns of a possible escalation in the conflict with Israel, according to reports.

This event has marked the deadliest day in the country since cross-border tensions with Israel intensified around a year ago. The death toll from Tuesday’s explosions rose to 12, including two children, and nearly 3,000 people injured till now.

While Israeli officials have remained silent on the incident, security sources suggest that Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad, was responsible for the explosions. A Hezbollah official called the operation the largest security breach in the group's history, causing chaos within its ranks.

The explosions unfolded alongside Israel's ongoing 11-month war in Gaza, stoking fears of a broader conflict along Israel's northern border with Lebanon. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant hinted at further escalation, stating, "We are opening a new phase in the war. It requires courage, determination, and perseverance from us."

Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi criticised Israel, accusing it of pushing the Middle East towards a regional war with its multiple escalations.

The U.S. denied any involvement in the blasts, but a U.S. official revealed that Israel had informed Washington of an impending action in Lebanon, though it provided no specifics. The operation itself came as a surprise to U.S. officials.

The situation continues to heighten tensions across the region, increasing fears of a broader war.