Thu Sep 19 07:27:34 UTC 2024: ## Iran Blames Israel for Lebanon Pager Explosions, Calls for International Action
**BEIRUT, Lebanon -** Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan’ani has condemned the pager explosions across Lebanon, which killed at least nine people and injured over 2,750, as an act of “mass murder” perpetrated by the Israeli regime. Kan’ani described the incident as a “continuation of hybrid operations being conducted by the Zionist regime and their mercenaries,” calling it a clear violation of international law and humanitarian principles.
He accused Israel of “exposing regional and international peace and security to serious threats” while simultaneously committing “war crimes and genocide against Palestinian people.” Kan’ani called for immediate international action against Israel, demanding accountability for the “criminal Israeli authorities.”
The Iranian diplomat offered condolences to the victims’ families and expressed Iran’s readiness to provide assistance to the Lebanese government.
The explosions, which occurred on Tuesday, targeted pagers across Lebanon, injuring many in the face, hands, and stomach. Among the dead was an eight-year-old girl, and over 200 people remain in critical condition.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese political and militant group, has blamed Israel for the attack and vowed retaliation. Prominent Hezbollah legislator Ali Ammar, whose son was killed in the explosions, said the attack was a “new Israeli aggression” against Lebanon.
Hezbollah officials confirmed that the sons of several other prominent members, including legislators Hassan Fadlallah and Wafiq Safa, were among the injured. Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani, was also injured in the explosions.
The Lebanese Red Cross has mobilized 130 ambulances and over 500 EMTs to respond to the tragedy, while providing 150 units of blood to hospitals across the country.
First Piper 