The number of fatalities from the Hezbollah pager explosions on Tuesday has risen to 12, including two children and four healthcare workers, according to Lebanon’s Health Minister, Firas Abiad.
The explosions, which injured over 2,800 people, occurred across multiple locations, primarily in Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley. Many victims required surgery for severe injuries, including amputations, with hospitals across the country overwhelmed.
Hezbollah has blamed Israel for planting explosives in pagers used by its members, while Israel has declined to comment.
However, reports from US and Lebanese sources suggest that Israeli operatives may have sabotaged the devices.
Hezbollah has now vowed a retaliation, warning Israel of a “severe reckoning” for the attack.
The United Nations, United States and United Kingdom have urged calm, fearing an escalation of the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.
This incident comes amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, exacerbated by the war in Gaza.
Hezbollah has continued its support of Hamas and insists its operations will persist until the Gaza conflict concludes.
Death toll from Hezbollah pager explosions in Lebanon rises to 12