Israel Admits Involvement in Lebanon Pager Attacks, Netanyahu Confirms Approval

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that he had given the green light for a deadly September attack on Hezbollah communications devices in Lebanon. The blasts killed almost 40 people and wounded about 3000, preceding Israel’s military operation in Lebanon.

The admission marks the first time Israel has publicly acknowledged its involvement in the attacks, which were carried out using hand-held devices used by Hezbollah operatives. The devices detonated two days in a row in supermarkets, streets, and at funerals in mid-September, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

Hezbollah had previously blamed Israel for the blasts, which dealt a significant blow to the Iran-backed militant group. In response, Hezbollah vowed revenge and began low-intensity strikes on Israel in support of Hamas following its ally’s October 7 attack last year on Israel that triggered the Gaza war.

Netanyahu’s confirmation comes as the situation in Lebanon continues to escalate. Strikes have intensified since war broke out in late September, when Israel escalated its air campaign against Hezbollah and then sent ground troops into south Lebanon.

Background

The attacks on Hezbollah communications devices in Lebanon were part of a larger pattern of violence between Israel and Hezbollah. In October 2022, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, triggering the Gaza war. Hezbollah, which is closely allied with Hamas, vowed to take revenge for the attack.

In response, Israel launched its military operation in Lebanon, which has resulted in significant damage and loss of life. The attacks on Hezbollah communications devices were a key part of this operation, with Israeli forces using hand-held devices to target Hezbollah’s communication networks.

Consequences

The blasts killed nearly 40 people and wounded about 3000, making them one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent history. The attacks also had significant economic consequences, with many businesses forced to close and trade disrupted.

Hezbollah has vowed to continue its strikes against Israel until it reaches a cease-fire agreement. The Israeli government has maintained that its military operation is necessary to protect its citizens from terrorist threats.

Global Reaction

The international community has been largely divided in its response to the violence in Lebanon. Some countries, such as France and Germany, have called for a ceasefire and urged both sides to negotiate a peaceful resolution. Others, such as the United States, have expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats.

Key Dates

* October 7, 2022: Hamas launches attack on Israel, triggering Gaza war.
* Late September 2022: War breaks out in Lebanon, with Israel escalating its air campaign against Hezbollah and sending ground troops into south Lebanon.
* Mid-September 2022: Hand-held devices used by Hezbollah operatives detonate in supermarkets, streets, and at funerals in Lebanon.

Key Players

* Benjamin Netanyahu: Israeli Prime Minister who confirmed he gave green light for September attacks on Hezbollah communications devices.
* Hassan Nasrallah: Hezbollah leader who vowed revenge against Israel for the blasts.
* Hamas: Palestinian militant group that launched attack on Israel last October, triggering Gaza war.
* Iran: Country that supports Hezbollah and has been accused of providing it with military aid.

What’s Next

The situation in Lebanon remains fluid, with both sides continuing to exchange fire. The international community will be watching closely as the conflict escalates. One thing is clear: the violence in Lebanon has significant implications for regional stability and global security.