Thu Sep 19 07:46:56 UTC 2024: ## Walkie-Talkies Involved in Lebanon Explosions Linked to ICOM, Company Investigating
**Beirut, Lebanon/New Delhi, India** – A series of explosions in Lebanon involving walkie-talkies, which claimed 20 lives and injured over 450 people, has sparked an investigation into the devices’ origin. While the labels on the damaged walkie-talkies point to a Japanese origin, ICOM Inc., a leading radio equipment manufacturer, has declined to confirm if the devices were shipped by them.
ICOM stated that the specific model of walkie-talkies bearing their logo has been out of production since 2014, and the batteries used were discontinued a decade ago. However, the company is investigating the reports and promises to provide updates on their website.
These incidents, occurring in Hezbollah-controlled areas in Lebanon, follow a series of explosions involving pager devices a day earlier, which resulted in 12 deaths and over 2800 injuries across the country.
While Israel has not yet commented on the recent explosions, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has declared the beginning of a “new phase” in the ongoing conflict with Lebanon. Addressing Israeli troops, Gallant stressed the need for courage and determination in the face of the escalating situation.
The nature of these explosions and their potential connection to the ongoing Israeli-Lebanese conflict remain under investigation.
First Piper 