Hezbollah fighters’ walkie-talkies detonate in Lebanon’s south during funeral for earlier explosion victims raising death toll to 12

In a tragic turn of events, a series of explosive devices planted in communication equipment has caused havoc in Lebanon.

Onlookers and security personnel report that walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah members suddenly exploded, killing three people and injuring dozens more, including mourners at a funeral.

This marks the second day of violent incidents linked to Hezbollah’s communication devices.

Day of Mourning Turns Deadly

The most recent explosions occurred in southern Lebanon, specifically in the capital’s southern suburbs and near the site of a funeral for Hezbollah fighters.

These individuals had been victims of a similar attack the day before, where pagers used by the group detonated, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

The explosions during the funeral have fueled more fear and anxiety in the community, as mourners were among those injured.

Widespread Injuries and a Growing Death Toll

The explosions have led to mounting casualties, with 12 confirmed deaths, including two children, according to Lebanon’s health authorities.

Nearly 3,000 people, many of them Hezbollah fighters, were injured in the blasts.

These injuries have raised concerns of a more expansive conflict in the region, with Hezbollah vowing to retaliate against Israel.

Hezbollah and Israel on Edge

Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed group in the region, has accused Israel’s Mossad of orchestrating the attacks by planting explosives in the pagers and walkie-talkies months before the incident.

While Hezbollah responded with rocket fire aimed at Israeli artillery positions, the looming threat of further violence between the two sides is intensifying.

Though Israel’s military has not commented on the accusations, tensions have been simmering since the Gaza conflict erupted last October.

International Concern Grows

Lebanon’s foreign minister has warned that these events could signal a broader war in the region, while Jordan’s Foreign Minister also accused Israel of escalating tensions to dangerous levels.

With Hezbollah’s promise to continue supporting Hamas in Gaza, and the group labeling the pager attacks as the biggest breach in its history, regional players are preparing for the possibility of an extended conflict.

Outlook: What’s Next?

Hezbollah’s recent actions and the devastating explosions have left Lebanon teetering on the edge of further violence.

Experts believe that while Hezbollah aims to avoid an all-out war, the scope of the destruction may lead to increased pressure on the group to escalate its response.

As the situation unfolds, the potential for a larger Middle Eastern conflict involving major global players such as the U.S. and Iran remains a serious concern.