US Says It Is Gathering Information on Lebanon Pager Blasts by Reuters

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WASHINGTON (Reuters) – On Tuesday, the United States announced that it is in the process of gathering information following a tragic event in Lebanon, where at least eight individuals lost their lives and approximately 2,750 others were injured. The casualties occurred due to simultaneous detonations of pagers used by members of Hezbollah, which include fighters and medics.

During a regular briefing, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the U.S. was not involved in the incidents and did not have prior knowledge about them. In light of the situation, Hezbollah has threatened to retaliate against Israel.

"We are collecting information regarding this incident," Miller remarked. "I can assure you that the U.S. had no involvement and was unaware of the situation before it occurred."

He further explained, "Our information-gathering efforts are akin to those of journalists worldwide, aimed at understanding the facts surrounding what transpired."

In response to inquiries, Miller expressed that the United States consistently maintains concern over incidents that could escalate tensions in the Middle East, urging Iran not to exploit such situations to instigate instability. He emphasized the principle that civilians should never be viewed as legitimate targets in any operation.