Larger Explosives and More Intense Fires in Lebanon: Series of Explosions Expands

After the severe explosions in Lebanon on Wednesday, the damage is significantly greater than before. The new attacks involved remote-controlled explosive devices that were much larger and heavier than the previously detonated search beacons. In some cases, these larger devices also caused more devastating fires, as an analysis by the New York Times based on visual evidence reveals. Photos and videos from the crime scene show that the communication devices used in Wednesday's explosions were nearly three times heavier than those used on Tuesday. While the destruction on Wednesday was not as widespread as earlier incidents, the larger explosive devices led to more major fires, indicating a higher explosive power. The Lebanese health authority reported that at least 14 people were killed, and more than 450 others were injured in Wednesday's explosions. These figures relate to the victims from Tuesday, when the detonation of the search beacons killed twelve people and injured over 2,700. According to the Lebanese Civil Defense, fires broke out in at least 71 residences and businesses, and at least 18 cars and motorcycles were set ablaze. The Times identified the communication device used on Wednesday, based on three photos and a video, as the IC-V82, a radio from the Japanese company Icom. It remains unclear where Hezbollah procured the devices. Some of the devices were so severely damaged that their backs were torn off, indicating the enormous explosive force. Other devices showed visible damage to the front. As early as 2022, Hezbollah was linked to the IC-V82 when the group "United Against Nuclear Iran" warned about Hezbollah's use of Icom devices. A Hezbollah fighter was also photographed with an Icom radio in 2022. Alexander Cardia contributed to the video and graphic production.