Qatar Airways bans walkie-talkies on Lebanon flights after explosions
Qatar Airways has announced a ban on passengers carrying pagers and walkie-talkies on flights departing from Beirut, Lebanon. The restriction, which applies to both checked and carry-on luggage as well as cargo, was implemented following a series of deadly explosions involving these devices in the country. The airline stated that this measure is in accordance with directives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of the Republic of Lebanon and will remain in effect until further notice.
Explosions in Lebanon
The decision by Qatar Airways was prompted by a series of explosions involving walkie-talkies and pagers in Lebanon. These incidents resulted in significant casualties, with at least 20 people reported dead and over 450 injured on September 18, according to Al Jazeera. This followed a coordinated attack targeting pagers the previous day that claimed 12 lives and injured more than 2,800 people.
Israel Defense Forces respond to Lebanon explosions
Separately, on Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that they have initiated targeted strikes against Hezbollah's terrorist capabilities and infrastructure. The IDF stated that their operations aim to "diminish [Hezbollah's] terrorist capabilities and infrastructure" and restore security to northern Israel. Meanwhile, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared the commencement of a "new phase" in the war, with a focus on the northern front.
