17 Sep 2024 | 03:19 PM UTC
Lebanon: Explosions reportedly injure thousands of suspected Lebanese Hizballah (LH) militants in several locations across the country Sept. 17 /update 2
Explosions reportedly injure thousands of LH militants in several locations across Lebanon Sept. 17. Increased security likely.
Over 1,200 Lebanese Hizballah (LH) militants in several areas of Lebanon were injured after their personal communication devices exploded on Sept. 17. Initial reports indicated at least 50-70 people were injured in Beirut's LH-dominated Dahieh neighborhood alone, while other detonations reportedly occurred in areas of southern Lebanon and Beqaa Governorate. The exact cause of the explosions remains unclear, though initial reports allege Israeli authorities hacked into LH's communication network to detonate the devices. Casualty figures will almost certainly rise over the coming hours.
Local authorities are expected to carry out security operations in the affected areas, which may include measures like checkpoints and vehicle inspections, potentially leading to localized transportation disruptions.
Avoid the impacted areas until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Heed instructions from authorities. In light of recent regional tensions, consider avoiding nonessential travel to Lebanon, particularly the border region shared with Israel, until the situation stabilizes. Consider departing Lebanon via commercial means while these are available. Note that commercial options in Lebanon may become increasingly limited if the security environment deteriorates.
