Reuters World News New wave of blasts in Lebanon, Israel’s cyber warfare unit and Fed’s big rate cut
Sep 19, 2024
Tensions escalate as Israel conducts airstrikes in southern Lebanon, linked to thwarting an Iran-backed assassination plot. Hezbollah adapts its tactics, using low-tech communication amidst rising conflict risk. Recent explosions in Lebanon raise questions about international supply chains and intelligence involvement. Dive into the capabilities of Israel's secretive cyber warfare division, Unit 8200, and what recent Fed rate cuts could mean for the U.S. economy and upcoming elections.
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Widespread Electronics Explosions Devastate Lebanon
- Explosions of Hezbollah pagers and then walkie-talkies have shattered public calm and killed dozens across Lebanon.
- The attacks pushed the country into its deadliest day since cross-border fighting began nearly a year ago.
Hezbollah Scrambles To Salvage Communications
- A Reuters reporter watched Hezbollah members frantically remove batteries and toss parts into metal barrels after explosions.
- The group reverted to 2006 contingency comms plans, operating in smaller, disconnected cells to continue attacks.
Supply-Chain Trail Adds Mystery To Attacks
- Supply-chain traces led investigators from Taiwan and Hungary to Bulgaria amid confusion over where explosive devices were fitted.
- Multiple governments and companies have denied direct involvement while probes continue.