Iran’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amini, suffered severe injuries, including loss of one eye and significant damage to the other, when a pager he was carrying exploded. This incident occurred amidst a series of blasts targeting wireless electronic devices.
According to two members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, who wished to remain anonymous, Amini’s injuries were more severe than initially reported. They revealed that he would be medevacked to Tehran for treatment.
Hossein Soleimani, editor-in-chief of Mashregh, confirmed the extent of Amini’s injuries on social media, stating, “Unfortunately the injuries sustained by Iran’s ambassador were extremely severe and in his eyes.”
A video published by Iranian news outlets showed Amini being transported to the hospital, with his eyes covered in bandages and his shirt stained with blood.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, condemned the attack and offered medical assistance. He spoke with Lebanon’s Foreign Minister and Amini’s wife, Narges Ghadirian, wishing the ambassador a speedy recovery.
Initially, Ghadirian reported on social media that her husband was “slightly injured but thank God he is all right and the danger has passed.” However, subsequent updates revealed the gravity of his condition.
Two of Amini’s bodyguards were also injured due to exploding pagers. Iranian media reported similar explosions in Syria.
A Revolutionary Guards member disclosed that the pagers beeped for 10 seconds before exploding, causing victims to hold the devices close to their faces. The members added that these pagers were exclusively used by Hezbollah members and operatives, not ordinary citizens.
Tasnim News Agency, affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, corroborated the Syria explosions.
Araghchi’s office released a statement emphasizing Iran’s readiness to medevac Amini and other injured individuals for medical treatment.
The incident highlights concerns about the security of wireless electronic devices and the potential risks associated with their use.
As Amini receives treatment, tensions remain high, and investigations are likely to unfold.
The full extent of the damage and implications of this incident remain to be seen.
