By Aaior K. Comfort

A series of deadly explosions in Hezbollah-controlled regions of Lebanon has intensified fears of a broader war in the Middle East. On September 18, 2024, nine people were killed, and over 300 were injured in a second wave of blasts primarily targeting Hezbollah strongholds, including southern Beirut. The explosions, reportedly caused by booby-trapped walkie-talkies and paging devices used by Hezbollah, came just a day after a similar attack that killed 12 and wounded thousands across the country.

Lebanese officials and Hezbollah have blamed Israel for the attacks, raising the prospect of escalating hostilities between the two sides. The already volatile situation has seen near-daily cross-border clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces since the Gaza war broke out in October 2023. Israel has not commented on the recent explosions, though Defense Minister Yoav Gallant suggested an increased military focus on Hezbollah as part of its operations.

The bombings have strained hospitals in Lebanon, where doctors have reported severe injuries, including amputations and permanent vision loss. Hezbollah has vowed retaliation, while the Lebanese government condemned the attacks as a violation of the nation’s sovereignty. International airlines have suspended flights to key regional destinations as tensions mount, and the United Nations is set to hold talks to address the escalating conflict.