'Use it or lose it': Why Israel targeted Hezbollah’s devices in Lebanon now

Over the last two days, Lebanon has been shaken by a series of explosions targeting Hezbollah militants, widely believed to be orchestrated by Israel. The sophisticated attacks, which detonated electronic devices such as pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah members, have left over 30 people dead and hundreds injured.
The first wave of explosions on Tuesday hit areas in both Lebanon and Syria, killing at least 12 people, including children, and wounding thousands.A second round of detonations followed the next day, targeting Beirut and other parts of Lebanon. One of the blasts occurred during a funeral for victims of the earlier attack. Lebanon's health ministry reported that the second wave of explosions left at least 20 more dead and hundreds injured.
Reports suggest that the devices were compromised well in advance of the attack. An American official, speaking anonymously, revealed that Israel had briefed the US on the operation. According to NBC News, analysts believe Israel either acted out of concern that Hezbollah would discover the rigged devices or that the strikes were part of a larger military plan.
A 'use it or lose it' approach
CNN reported that Israeli forces triggered the explosions to prevent Hezbollah members from discarding the compromised devices once they became suspicious. A security source referred to the situation as a “use it or lose it” moment, explaining that it was a calculated decision to act before Hezbollah could react. Despite the precision of the strikes, the attacks killed several civilians, heightening fears of broader regional instability.
Hezbollah said that the devices used in the explosions were "recently imported" and appeared to have been "sabotaged at source," AFP reported quoting sources. Preliminary findings suggested the pagers were booby-trapped, with explosive materials concealed next to the battery for remote detonation.

The blasts overwhelmed hospitals, with injuries primarily affecting the eyes and hands. A doctor said thatthe severity of injuries as "out of this world," with reports of amputations and severe shrapnel wounds. Additionally, international airlines like Lufthansa and Air France suspended flights to the region amid escalating tensions.
US denies involvement, again
Amid speculation surrounding international involvement, the White House quickly distanced itself from the attacks again. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby firmly denied any US participation, saying, “We were not involved in yesterday’s incidents or today’s in any way.” Kirby also stressed the need for diplomacy to prevent further escalation, warning that additional military action would only worsen the situation. He reaffirmed that the US did not support opening a new front in Lebanon.
"We don't believe that the way to solve where we're at in this crisis is by additional military operations at all," Kirby said.