Lebanese health minister announces surge in death tolls following pager explosions

Lebanon’s Health Minister Firas Alabiad has announced that the death toll from Tuesday’s pager explosions has risen to 12, including two children.

The minister revealed that the number of injured people ranges from 2,750 to 2,800, with approximately 300 reported as critical.

This devastating incident led to at least 460 surgeries, primarily for face and eye injuries, as well as limb amputations.

In response to the crisis, Alabiad noted that 15 tons of medical aid have arrived from Iraq, and communication has been established with Egypt, Jordan, Türkiye, and other countries for further assistance.

The explosions occurred in several areas, including Beirut, with local media suggesting an Israeli breach of the system.

Hezbollah confirmed that two of its members were killed and many injured, holding Israel fully responsible for the incident.

The attack comes amid escalating border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have been engaged in cross-border warfare since Tel Aviv’s deadly war on the Gaza Strip began. The conflict has claimed over 41,200 lives, mostly women and children, following a Hamas attack on October 7 last year.