Israel carried out a covert operation targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon by concealing explosive materials within a shipment of Taiwanese-made pagers, according to reports from American and other officials who were briefed on the incident. The operation, which occurred on Tuesday, involved pagers ordered by Hezbollah from the Taiwanese company, Gold Apollo.
Hezbollah’s Connection with Taiwanese Pagers
Hezbollah had reportedly placed an order for a batch of pagers from Gold Apollo, a well-known manufacturer in Taiwan. These pagers, particularly the AP924 model, were among the items tampered with before they reached Lebanon, officials confirmed. Three other models from the same manufacturer were also included in the shipment.
How Israel Used Explosive Pagers Against Hezbollah
According to two officials, small amounts of explosive material—around one to two ounces—were implanted alongside the batteries in each of the pagers. The clever placement of explosives ensured the devices remained undetected during shipment. In addition, a switch was embedded within the pagers, allowing for remote detonation.
At approximately 3:30 p.m. in Lebanon, the pagers received what appeared to be a message from Hezbollah’s leadership. However, this message was in fact part of the Israeli operation and activated the explosives concealed within the pagers.
Casualties and Damage
Lebanon’s Health Minister confirmed that the explosion resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 11 people and left more than 2,700 injured. The incident has caused shockwaves across Lebanon and raised questions about Israel’s intelligence capabilities and Hezbollah’s vulnerability.
Strategic Impact of Israel’s Operation on Hezbollah
The use of pagers as explosive devices highlights Israel’s continued efforts to outmaneuver Hezbollah with advanced tactics. Hezbollah’s reliance on external suppliers like Taiwan for communication devices creates potential vulnerabilities, as demonstrated in this operation.
Israel has historically employed covert methods to weaken Hezbollah, a militant group that has posed significant threats to Israel’s security. This operation, involving tampered pagers, underscores the sophistication of Israel’s intelligence operations in the region.
