The recent explosions of Hezbollah’s pagers, which have left hundreds injured and further stoked tensions between the militant group and Israel, have triggered a wave of reactions online.
One notable figure who wasn’t pleased by the news was Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), a member of the progressive “Squad” known for her strong pro-Palestinian stance. Tlaib reposted an Al-Jazeera journalist’s comment calling the incident “disgusting,” in reference to the lighthearted way in which some on social media responded to the event, particularly Washington Bureau Chief Ron Kampeas of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA).
Disgusting. https://t.co/dxyORsFlIP
— Rashida Tlaib (@RashidaTlaib) September 17, 2024
Tlaib’s remarks didn’t sit well with many, especially given Hezbollah’s recent involvement in attacks against Israel. Social media users flooded her post with replies reminding her of the terrorist group’s role in killing Israeli civilians, pointing out that Hezbollah’s aggression is what sparked the situation in the first place.
Hezbollah, which has been involved in a series of deadly attacks, including targeting Israeli civilians and villages like Majdal Shams, has vowed revenge for the pager explosions, which they blame on Israel’s Mossad. Reports indicate that explosives, including PETN, were planted in the pagers, resulting in mass casualties.
You taking the side of Hezbollah members is the least surprising news maybe ever
— Enguerrand VII de Coucy (@ingelramdecoucy) September 17, 2024
Tlaib’s comments align with a familiar pattern from her and other members of the “Squad,” who often lean on sources like Al-Jazeera to amplify their criticisms of Israel. Al-Jazeera, a Qatari-owned outlet, has been a frequent tool in this regard, though it has faced significant pushback and even been banned from Israel due to its perceived connections with terrorist sympathizers, including Hamas and Hezbollah.
The explosions have further heightened tensions in an already volatile region, especially as Hezbollah launched retaliatory rocket attacks on Israeli artillery positions.
Although these latest strikes didn’t cause damage or casualties, the potential for an all-out war between Hezbollah and Israel looms large. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has already signaled a shift in focus toward the northern border, with additional troops and resources being deployed to the area.
Were any of your staff members injured by the pagers?
— Brian Jacobson (@BrianHJacobson) September 17, 2024
