Lebanon: Exploding Pagers and the Death of Hassan Nasrallah

Ebu Masum Mücahit

In recent months, Zionist violence in the Middle East has intensified. The tragic events in Gaza, Lebanon, and throughout the region highlight a deepening crisis that urgently requires global attention. Israel, a state formed from the geopolitical ambitions of colonial powers, has faced accusations of increasingly aggressive tactics that destabilize the region. The ideology of Zionism prioritizes territorial expansion and control, often at the expense of long-term peace and human rights. This ideology values material and political gains above all else, as reflected in their distorted texts, which imply a willingness to harm neighbours for personal benefit. The recent destruction of pagers and radios used for humanitarian purposes in Lebanon further emphasizes this concerning trend.

The Pager Bomb

In a series of devastating incidents in Lebanon, the occupation forces have targeted communications equipment used by civilian volunteers affiliated with Hezbollah, particularly those in the health sector. On September 18, explosives hidden in the batteries of these devices were remotely detonated, killing and injuring hundreds of people. Just a day later, walkie-talkies used by the same volunteers were also detonated, further claiming the lives of civilians, including children, and public workers.

These devices, purchased by Hezbollah only six months prior, were sourced through a complex supply chain, reportedly originating from a company, BAC, based in England (not in Hungary) despite being initially linked to a Taiwanese manufacturer. The complicated nature of these transactions raises concerns about the global supply of potentially compromised equipment, which, in this instance, has resulted in profound human tragedy.

According to The New York Times, the equipment used in the attacks was distributed by a front company set up by Mossad, Israel’s intelligence agency. Small explosive devices had reportedly been planted within the batteries of the pagers, which were triggered remotely via electronic messages, causing the deadly explosions. A similar tactic was used the following day to detonate radios used by Hezbollah volunteers, further intensifying the toll.

The radios in question, manufactured by a Japanese company that ceased production over a decade ago, were said to have been obtained through subcontractors selling surplus stock online. The company, however, has denied any direct involvement, insisting that it no longer produces or sells the devices. In both cases, the batteries had been tampered with, housing small bombs designed to be detonated remotely, which has sparked widespread anxiety about the safety of technological devices in the region.

While experts have reassured the public that such incidents require deliberate tampering and should not prompt undue fear, the attacks have nonetheless created a sense of paranoia among users of similar technology. The region’s instability escalated even further just a week later, on September 27, 2024, when Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike. These events raise unsettling questions about the ongoing shadow war and the lengths to which intelligence agencies are willing to go. What is truly at play here?

Why did Israel wait until now to carry out these attacks?

Why were the devices, purchased six months ago, held back until this moment? Observers have argued that the delay reflects Israel’s recent struggles in countering Hamas, which has effectively challenged Israeli security forces for the past year. Far from being a triumphant success, these incidents are seen by some as the result of Hezbollah’s own carelessness and internal mismanagement, rather than a demonstration of Israeli intelligence prowess.

The October 7 events revealed the vulnerabilities of Israel’s security apparatus, including the widely mythologized Mossad. For the past year, despite its reputation for invincibility, Israel has faced significant setbacks in dealing with Hamas, a much smaller and less equipped adversary. These recent attacks, some argue, are part of an attempt by Israel to rehabilitate its image, tarnished by perceived failures. Although, the Zionist-influenced media has inflated these actions as a victory, but then evidence shows otherwise. It was indeed out of Hezbollah’s own negligence and internal betrayals.

The question of ceasefire or justice?

As the U.S. presidential elections draw near, the Biden administration is reportedly urging Israel to pursue peace to secure the support of key constituencies, including Muslim voters and anti-Israel advocacy groups. Facing the prospect of a tough re-election campaign, Biden’s team seems keen to strike a diplomatic balance that would appeal to these communities, who have become increasingly vocal about American foreign policy in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a different set of pressures. As his time in office may be nearing its end, he is working to rehabilitate his damaged reputation and restore the image of Mossad after recent setbacks. However, the U.S. push for peace places him in a difficult position, as it may conflict with his need to project strength and resolve. Any concessions under American pressure could further complicate his leadership and legacy, creating additional challenges on both the domestic and international fronts.

While these recent attacks may appear as short-term strategic gains for Israel, they are likely to salvage its reputation in the long run. The toll on civilians has been immense which further entangles it in war crimes. Well, this is not an isolated incident, but part of a troubling pattern. Israel has been accused of numerous violations of international law, yet the question remains: Who will hold it accountable? The need for impartial justice has never been greater. It calls for powerful institutions and leaders who are not swayed by geopolitical interests, but who stand for justice—individuals driven by a higher moral calling, committed to upholding fairness.

In the current global climate, however, the path to justice seems fraught with obstacles. Israel continues wrongdoing without any significant consequences. Until the international community confronts these issues with resolve, the cycle of violence and impunity is likely to persist.

No one seems safe

These attacks serve as a stark reminder for both individuals and states to rethink their approach to national security. The reliance on foreign-produced tools and technologies, particularly in strategically important sectors, can prove problematic during times of conflict. As recent events show, materials and equipment acquired during peacetime may become liabilities in wartime, stressing the need for domestic production and self-sufficiency in critical industries. For instance, Turkey’s experience with the F-16 fighter jets purchased from the United States highlights these vulnerabilities. The software for these aircraft, developed by the U.S. and Israel, has been perceived as a potential threat to Turkey’s national security, as weapons purchased with national funds are sometimes seen as being wielded against its interests.

Why did Hassan Nasrallah acquire these devices during an ongoing conflict, especially after advising his followers against using telephones due to security risks? How could Nasrallah, who reportedly avoided public appearances for safety reasons, be located and targeted? If Hezbollah chose to procure technology or weapons amidst wartime, it raises questions about their diligence in vetting suppliers, particularly if those suppliers are suspected of ties to Mossad. Did Hezbollah not have the technical expertise to thoroughly examine these devices before acquisition?

History offers further cautionary tales. The death of Bedri İnce Tahtacı, a close colleague of the late Turkish leader Necmettin Erbakan, was involved in satellite interference with his car’s braking system. Similarly, Chechen President Zhevher Dudayev was killed in 1996 by a missile guided by a signal from his phone. These examples illustrate the risks of relying on foreign technology in critical moments.

For Muslim countries, these incidents serve as a crucial lesson: the production and management of technological devices must be done domestically to ensure independence and security. Leaders in the Muslim world must remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their nations from external interference and manipulation.

Undoubtedly, this conflict transcends a mere struggle between Hezbollah and Israel; it calls for vigilance from all Muslim leaders. A moment’s negligence can embolden adversaries and alienate allies. It is evident that if Muslim nations had united in their resistance against Israel’s aggression, the situation might have unfolded differently. For instance, had Hezbollah collaborated with Hamas from the onset of Israel’s attacks, the latter could have found itself besieged on multiple fronts. The violence faced by Gaza yesterday now mirrors the challenges confronting Lebanon and Hezbollah today.

Nasrallah’s decision to refrain from attending an event when the Zionists targeted Ismail Haniyeh raises pressing questions. He could have advised Haniyeh against attending, especially considering the heightened risks. While Iran offers support to Hezbollah, it appears they were unable or unwilling to protect Haniyeh from this attack. Did Nasrallah and his team fail to consider these implications? In light of Haniyeh’s death, Nasrallah should have exercised greater caution. One must wonder: has he, despite being under Iran’s protective umbrella, been compromised by influences from the Zionist lobby operating within Iran? Historical precedents raise concerns, as illustrated by the fate of Iran’s own leader, who was reportedly abandoned during his time of need, and how those who instigated the Iranian Revolution had connections to France.

If Iran struggles to assert its policy against external pressures from nations like France, which provides unwavering support to Israeli forces, how can Hezbollah effectively confront Israel? The complexities of these alliances complicate their ability to coordinate with groups like Hamas in their shared struggle.

Zionist vs. Humanity

This war is, in fact, a conflict between all of humanity and Zionism. Therefore, the entire world—not just the Middle East—must be involved in this struggle. Human lives are being lost, human rights are being violated, and human dignity is being mocked by these Zionists. In time, we will realize just how crucial this war is for both Muslims and humanity as a whole. This society holds perverse beliefs, viewing themselves as a superior race and regarding others as the descendants of Hagar—mere slaves. Consequently, they do not hesitate to ignite chaos around the world, driven by their Rabbis, who worship a distorted and manipulative worldview. Wherever there is turmoil and distress on Earth, a Zionist is likely to be involved. Throughout history, humanity has recognized this pattern, and this nation has been exiled numerous times.

In light of recent events, it has become imperative to boycott all products associated with Zionism. A mindset that transforms tools meant for humanitarian aid into instruments of war reflects a broader philosophy that devalues human life. Consider the mentality that resorts to exploding radios intended for humanitarian use; can we trust that the same mindset does not extend to the food we consume? Are we not justified in questioning whether medicines produced by Zionist companies could carry hidden dangers? Furthermore, the sale of GMO hybrid agricultural products raises serious health concerns, including links to cancer within our communities. The technological devices we acquire may also harbour harmful substances. Thus, it is our humanitarian duty to refrain from purchasing any products tied to Zionism. We must advocate for a widespread boycott, not just as a political statement but as a moral obligation on behalf of all humanity. Additionally, we must prioritize the development of our own technologies, promoting self-reliance and ensuring the safety and well-being of our societies.