Analysis from credible geopolitical analysts or reports from news agencies

Over Nine Years, Hezbollah Paid Millions for Mossad's Booby-Trapped Apollo Devices

Oct 6, 2024, 02:20 AM

Israel's Mossad orchestrated a sophisticated operation to infiltrate Hezbollah's communications by supplying the group with booby-trapped devices via a Taiwanese company called Apollo, according to reports by The Washington Post. Beginning in 2015, Mossad allegedly supervised the manufacturing of these devices, including the model 'Apollo AR924', which were designed to be appealing to Hezbollah operatives with features such as ruggedness, waterproofing, and long-lasting battery life. A former Apollo marketing official became trusted by Hezbollah and offered them a deal on the pagers. Unbeknownst to Hezbollah, the devices contained hidden explosives that were undetectable even when disassembled and could be triggered remotely or when certain buttons were pressed simultaneously. Hezbollah paid millions of dollars for the devices, indirectly funding their own sabotage. Over the years, Israel used the devices to eavesdrop on Hezbollah communications, while retaining the option to detonate them. In 2023, these devices were activated, resulting in the deaths or injuries of thousands of Hezbollah members. The operation represents a significant penetration of Hezbollah by Israeli intelligence.