Pager plot: How Mossad sold explosive devices to Hezbollah?

On 17 September, after nearly a year of escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Mossad carried out one of the most daring counterintelligence operations in recent history—the “pager plot.” A modern take on the Trojan horse, this operation involved the Israeli spy agency creating bomb-laden pagers that Hezbollah fighters unwittingly carried on their bodies.

The plot's repercussions were profound, leading to the weakening of Iran's influence, the downfall of the Assad regime in Syria, and the near destruction of Hezbollah. We spoke with two recently retired senior Mossad agents, who played key roles in the operation, under strict conditions to protect their identities.

One of the agents, "Michael," explained that the operation began a decade ago, initially with the development of explosive walkie-talkies. Mossad embedded explosive devices inside walkie-talkie batteries and sold them to Hezbollah, who unknowingly purchased over 16,000 of these weapons.

To evolve the operation, Mossad turned its attention to Hezbollah's continued use of pagers. Working with a Taiwanese company called Gold Apollo, Mossad created booby-trapped pagers, making subtle modifications to include explosives. Testing showed that only the person carrying the pager would be harmed, even if others were nearby.

After overcoming internal objections, Mossad's team launched a global marketing campaign, advertising the pagers as a top-tier product. Eventually, Hezbollah purchased 5,000 of the pagers, unaware of their deadly nature.

On 17 September 2024, Mossad activated the pagers, triggering explosions throughout Lebanon. The explosions resulted in widespread chaos, with numerous Hezbollah members wounded. Later, Mossad activated the walkie-talkies, which had remained dormant for years. The combined attacks left around 30 dead and 3,000 injured, with the injured serving as living reminders of the operation’s success.

The attack proved a turning point. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, appearing broken and defeated, gave a subdued speech the following day. His demoralised troops saw their leader in a vulnerable state, signaling the beginning of Hezbollah’s downfall. This ultimately led to the collapse of their command structure and a desperate plea for a ceasefire.

The ripple effects of the operation were felt throughout the region. With Hezbollah shattered, Iranian influence waned, and the Assad regime in Syria fell. Mossad’s agents hoped this success would have an impact on other groups, including Hamas, who might now feel more isolated and vulnerable.

The psychological impact of the operation was significant. Michael noted that after the pager explosions, even the Lebanese feared everyday objects, such as air conditioners, might explode—creating a lasting sense of vulnerability. Mossad’s agents saw this as part of their strategy to unsettle Hezbollah and maintain their superiority on the battlefield.

Though Israel’s methods have been controversial, Mossad's actions have undeniably reshaped the Middle East, tipping the balance in favour of Israel and leaving its adversaries in a state of disarray.