A second wave of mysterious explosions rocked Lebanon, particularly in Beirut, as reported by local sources on Wednesday evening. The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed at least 14 fatalities and around 450 injuries linked to explosions of communication devices, primarily handheld radios.

Explosions were reported in Beirut’s Dahiyeh district, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, all regions with a notable Hezbollah presence. Many reports indicated that the blasts targeted devices used by Hezbollah operatives, with similar incidents also occurring in Syria and Iraq. Analysts suggested that the actual number of casualties within Hezbollah ranks may be significantly higher than reported, as many commanders were injured or incapacitated.

In response, senior Hezbollah official Hashem Safi al-Din characterized the situation as a “new stage,” warning that retribution was forthcoming. He emphasized that the group would not overlook these attacks, signaling a potential escalation in tensions.

Some explosions coincided with a funeral for Hezbollah members killed in an earlier wave of explosions involving pagers just over a day prior. This timing has heightened the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within the community, as families mourn their losses amidst ongoing violence.

Footage circulating on social media depicted burning vehicles and damaged buildings, suggesting that a larger quantity of explosives was involved in the recent blasts. Reports of detonated devices included handheld radios and walkie-talkies, with unconfirmed reports of some other electronic devices in the latest attack targeting technology.

Civil defense authorities in Nabatiyeh reported extinguishing fires in 60 homes and shops, along with 15 vehicles and numerous motorcycles. Emergency services have been overwhelmed, responding to multiple incidents across affected areas and struggling to contain the damage.

According to Reuters, Hezbollah acquired the mobile radios that exploded about five months ago, around the same time as the previously detonated pagers. This connection raises questions about the security and integrity of the equipment used by the group.

While Hezbollah has attributed the explosions to Israeli sabotage, there has been no official comment from Israeli authorities regarding the incidents. The lack of response from Israel contrasts sharply with the ongoing narrative of conflict, leaving many to speculate about the implications for regional stability and security in the months ahead.