Israel Targets Hezbollah Communication Devices with Explosives
The recent attack in Lebanon involving a ‘Pager’ as a delivery mechanism for an explosive device has sent shockwaves across the globe. Pager is a wireless telecommunications device that receives and displays alphanumeric or voice messages. This incident brings into sharper focus a worrisome new twist to technological warfare and also makes one think about the integrity of such modest electronic gadgets.
On September 17, 2024, electronic pagers belonging to members of Hezbollah detonated across Lebanon, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and approximately 2,800 injuries. The explosions primarily affected southern suburbs of Beirut, a stronghold for Hezbollah. This unprecedented attack has been attributed to Israel by both Hezbollah and Lebanese officials, although Israel has refrained from commenting on the allegations.
POTENTIAL MECHANISMS BEHIND THE EXPLOSIONS
Reports indicate that the pagers may have been remotely detonated through an incoming message. Videos show individuals checking their pagers moments before they exploded, suggesting a coordinated attack likely utilizing a coded signal to trigger the devices. Reports suggest that these devices were purchased by Hezbollah five months ago.
Experts believe that a small quantity of high explosives was concealed within each pager, specifically near the battery. This method allowed for discreet activation without detection. They also suggested that the devices contained explosives that were likely inserted during manufacturing or transportation.
WHY DOES HEZBOLLAH USE PAGERS?
Hezbollah has relied heavily on pagers as a low-tech means of communications to try to evade location-tracking by Israel. Pagers are much harder to track than mobile phones. In February, the slain leader of Hezbollah Hassan Nasrallah directed his fighters to get rid of their phones, saying they had been infiltrated by Israeli intelligence. Experts now say the directive, issued during a live televised address, may have forewarned Israeli intelligence operatives that the group would be seeking a new – likely lower tech – method of communications.
BBC news while citing US and Israeli officials stated that detonating the pagers all at once was initially planned as the opening move in an “all-out” offensive against Hezbollah. But in recent days Israel became concerned Hezbollah had become aware of the plan – so they were set off early.
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The simultaneous explosions of Hezbollah’s electronic pagers represent a complex interplay of technological vulnerabilities, geopolitical tensions, and security challenges. As investigations continue into how these devices were tampered with and detonated, the implications for regional stability remain profound. This incident underscores the evolving nature of warfare where traditional communication methods can be exploited through sophisticated tactics, raising concerns about future conflicts and the security measures necessary to protect sensitive communications in volatile environments
Author: Ali Basit
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