Hezbollah reported that pagers belonging to its members exploded across Lebanon, resulting in at least 8 deaths and over 2,700 injuries, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. The Iran-backed group accused Israel of causing the widespread, simultaneous blasts, but provided no evidence.
Israel has not yet commented on the accusations. Over 200 people are in critical condition following the explosions.
During the developing emergency in Lebanon, officials warned against using handheld devices. Iran’s ambassador was among those injured.
Hezbollah reported explosions from pagers killed three people, including a lawmaker’s son. The group uses pagers to avoid cellphone tracking.
The Health Ministry advised citizens to avoid wireless devices. It’s unclear if this was a coordinated attack on Hezbollah.
The U.S. State Department is investigating the incident.