1776Reporting
In a series of highly coordinated attacks, Israel intensified its intelligence operations targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon. Following the explosion of pager devices used by Hezbollah on Tuesday, a second wave of strikes occurred on Wednesday, this time focusing on two-way radios used by the militant group. Sources close to the operation revealed the objective was not only to destroy communication systems but to shake Hezbollah’s confidence in its own security measures. These covert attacks have escalated tension between Israel and Hezbollah, creating uncertainty about the militant group’s readiness for future conflicts.
Second Wave of Attacks Targets Radios
The latest operation centered around thousands of walkie-talkies that had been infiltrated by Israeli intelligence services. These radios, part of Hezbollah’s emergency communication network, were designed for use during a potential war with Israel. The intelligence operation saw the devices booby-trapped in advance, with their detonation leading to widespread damage. As one source explained, “The goal was to convince Hezbollah that it is in its interest to disconnect itself from Hamas.”
The strike, a severe breach of Hezbollah’s internal security, delivered a significant blow to the group’s military structure. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that the second wave of explosions claimed 14 lives and left 450 injured. Hezbollah’s command system, which relies on these communication tools, now faces increased challenges in coordination and operations.
Pager Devices Targeted First
The operation began on Tuesday with a similar tactic aimed at pagers used by Hezbollah members. Israeli intelligence forces detonated thousands of these devices, which led to the deaths of nine individuals, including a child. Over 2,800 others were wounded in the ensuing chaos. The attack was timed to coincide with the funerals of Hezbollah members killed in the first wave. In a dramatic twist, explosions occurred during the procession, adding to the confusion and further disorienting the group.
Videos circulated on social media showing scenes from the funerals, including one that depicted a Hezbollah guard lying wounded on the ground following an explosion. Additional blasts were reported in various parts of Lebanon, including Beirut, with some even occurring in homes and apartments.
Psychological Impact on Hezbollah
The second wave of strikes seems designed to instill paranoia within Hezbollah’s ranks. By targeting the group’s emergency communication system, Israel aimed to destabilize its operational readiness and foster distrust among its members. One source suggested that Israel’s goal was to pressure Hezbollah into reconsidering its stance on the broader conflict with Israel. The attacks also served as a psychological blow, as the group’s internal investigations into the first strike were likely underway when the second attack hit, exposing further vulnerabilities.
“The goal was to convince Hezbollah that it is in its interest to disconnect itself from Hamas and cut a separate deal for ending the fighting with Israel,” a source told Axios.
Israel’s Strategic Shift
The escalating tension was acknowledged by Israeli defense officials, who see the northern front as increasingly significant. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant noted during a visit to an Air Force base, “The center of gravity is moving from Gaza to the north through the diversion of resources and forces. We are opening a new phase in the war.” This reflects Israel’s broader strategic shift to address threats posed by Hezbollah, a group with deep ties to both Lebanon and Iran.
Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Gen. Herzi Halevi held strategic meetings to update operational plans for Lebanon. Halevi emphasized Israel’s determination to restore security for its citizens, stating, “We are ready to do whatever it takes to bring these things about. We have many capabilities that we have not yet activated.”
Global Reactions
The international community has reacted cautiously to the escalating violence. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made it clear that the United States was not involved in the operations. Speaking at a press conference in Egypt, he urged all parties to avoid steps that could escalate the conflict further. White House spokesperson John Kirby reiterated this position, stating that the U.S. had no involvement in the explosions in Lebanon.
As tensions continue to mount, the repercussions of these covert strikes on Hezbollah’s communication network remain to be seen. However, with both sides continuing to maneuver for strategic advantage, the situation in Lebanon appears increasingly volatile.
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