Why it matters:
The attacks on September 17–18, 2024, used booby-trapped pagers and walkie-talkies, killing 42 and injuring thousands, many of them civilians. The blasts struck crowded areas, harming shopkeepers, students, and children. The UN labeled the attacks a “terrifying” violation of international law.
The big picture:
The blasts were part of escalating tensions by the Israeli regime in the region, following Hezbollah’s retaliatory rocket attacks in solidarity with Palestinians after October 7, 2023.
Trump’s remarks have drawn criticism from human rights groups, Lebanese officials, and international observers.
Initially claiming Trump “misspoke,” the administration later confirmed his support, citing “auspices” as approval.
Key Points:
- Trump said: “All of those attacks were done under my auspices… they let me know everything.”
- Trump confused the Lebanon blasts with an Israeli airstrike in Doha, then claimed credit for ending fictitious wars between countries like Cambodia and Armenia.
- Psychologist Dr. John Gartner described Trump’s behavior as evidence of “immense cognitive decline.”
Go deeper:
Pager Attack Victims in Lebanon Meet With Ayatollah Sistani in Iraq
Neda Sajjadi - A.Akbari
