Israel reportedly executed a plan to detonate Hezbollah pagers carried by senior Hezbollah fighters across Lebanon and Syria yesterday, in what U.S. officials describe as a "use it or lose it" moment.
According to Axios, Israel had originally intended to use the booby-trapped devices as an opening salvo in a potential all-out war with Hezbollah. However, recent intelligence suggested that the terror group might be growing suspicious of the pagers. Al Monitor had reportedly indicated that two Hezbollah members had raised concerns about the devices.
The attack's timing was apparently influenced by fears of imminent discovery. "It was a use it or lose it moment," a U.S. official told Axios, explaining Israel's decision to go ahead with the plan.
While Israel has not officially commented on the operation, a former Israeli official confirmed to Axios that the exploding pagers were part of a broader war strategy against Hezbollah.
The coordinated assault caused widespread chaos across Lebanon and parts of Syria. Among the casualties was reportedly the Iranian ambassador to Lebanon, further escalating tensions in the region.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reportedly informed U.S. officials minutes before the operation began, though specifics were not provided.
Israel is bracing for Hezbollah's response, with the IDF and air force on high alert.
As the story continues to develop, officials and analysts are assessing the broader implications of this covert operation on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
The Times of Israel contributed to this article.
