A new twist has emerged in the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, following the recent explosions of walkie-talkies and pagers used by the Lebanon-based militant group. The Japanese company Icom, named as the manufacturer of the exploding walkie-talkies, has issued a statement vehemently denying any involvement.
In a statement released to AFP, Icom clarified that their IC-V82 model walkie-talkies were indeed manufactured and exported, including to the Middle East, between 2013 and 2014. However, they emphasized that production ceased in 2014 and no shipments have occurred since then. They also pointed out the discontinuation of battery production and the absence of a hologram seal to distinguish counterfeit products, making it impossible to confirm if the devices in question originated from their company.
Icom further stressed their strict manufacturing processes and emphasized that they exclusively sell through authorized distributors, adhering to Japanese security trade regulations. They categorically denied any possibility of unauthorized parts or overseas manufacturing.
The recent explosions, which killed over 20 and injured hundreds, have sparked international concern. While Hezbollah accused Israel of orchestrating the attacks, Israel has refrained from commenting on the matter. The New York Times, citing anonymous officials, reported that Israeli intelligence operatives had inserted explosives into both the pagers and the walkie-talkies. The pagers, manufactured by Taiwanese company Gold Appolo, were allegedly rigged with explosives near the battery and a remotely triggered detonator. Similar tactics were used on the walkie-talkies, which Hezbollah was reportedly planning to use for emergency communication during potential conflicts with Israel.
These incidents are part of a broader escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Following the Hamas attack on Israel in October, Hezbollah has engaged in near-daily clashes with Israel, displacing thousands in the north of the country. The focus has shifted to northern Israel as fighting in Gaza has slowed and peace talks remain stalled over Israeli demands. The recent events have further heightened tensions and the prospect of a full-scale war with Hezbollah appears increasingly likely.
