Israel's pager attack in Lebanon will blow back: Western tech can't be trusted anymore
Sep 24, 2024
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Ben Norton, a geopolitical analyst, discusses the recent Israeli bombing in Lebanon involving explosives in pagers. This act has stirred international condemnation and raised critical questions about the trustworthiness of Western technology. Norton argues that such incidents amplify skepticism towards U.S. tech firms, prompting Global South countries to increasingly turn to Chinese alternatives. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of technology weaponization and the shifting dynamics in global supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Israel's lethal use of pagers in Lebanon reveals the dangerous potential of weaponizing civilian technologies, prompting global distrust in Western tech.
The backlash against Israel's actions is likely to shift alliances towards Chinese technology, further fragmenting global supply chains and economic relations.
Deep dives
Israeli Attack and Civilian Casualties
An attack by Israel in Lebanon resulted in nearly 3,000 injuries and dozens of fatalities, including four children, sparking significant outrage. Israeli intelligence utilized explosives disguised in pagers and walkie-talkies, emphasizing an intent to target Hezbollah militants. However, collateral damage was extensive, as many casualties included civilians who were present with these militants, highlighting the attack's indiscriminate nature. Hezbollah's leadership condemned the strike as a declaration of war against Lebanon, reflecting the broader implications of this violent act on regional stability.
Global Repercussions and Technological Trust
The attack has led to a considerable global backlash, with many labeling it an act of terrorism and undermining trust in Western technologies. Countries and individuals are now questioning the reliability of technology produced by firms associated with the West, prompted by concerns over potential misuse. For example, Israel's blending of civilian technology with explosive capabilities has instigated fears about future weaponization of everyday devices. Consequently, nations may shift their allegiance towards Chinese technology and suppliers, disrupting global economic and trade dynamics.
Weaponization of Supply Chains and Geopolitical Impact
The manner in which Israel executed the attack exemplifies the dangerous potential of weaponizing civilian supply chains, raising alarms over international technology reliance. Reports show that Israel used a Hungarian company to create a facade for its operations, indicating a level of collusion among various nations in creating untrustworthy products. This development echoes the historical tactics of U.S. intelligence agencies, which have also been implicated in manipulating technology for espionage and sabotage. Such revelations are shifting global perceptions regarding Western technology, prompting countries to diversify their supply chains away from traditional dependencies.
Israel killed many people in Lebanon by putting explosives in pagers and walkie-talkies, in what was condemned internationally as a terrorist attack. This is already backfiring, hurting Western technology companies. Ben Norton discusses how this act of war will fragment supply chains, as Global South markets no longer trust tech made by the US and its allies. China's manufactured goods will increasingly be seen as a safer alternative.
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGnVF55Eu0o
Topics
0:00 Israel's pager attack in Lebanon
1:44 Ex CIA director admits it was terrorism
3:07 Russia blasts terrorism, China condemns Israel
3:58 Israel opened Pandora's box: global economy will fragment further
5:51 China gets more customers in Middle East / West Asia
6:44 China is largest trading partner of most countries
7:17 China is world's manufacturing superpower
9:52 How Israel made pagers into bombs (with Hungary & Taiwan links)
14:37 USA demonizes Chinese tech (Huawei)
15:45 US NSA spies on the entire world
18:39 Israel spies on other countries
20:56 USA fears Chinese role in supply chains
22:34 US role in Israeli plot
23:48 How US & Israel weaponize supply chains
29:28 Hezbollah
31:23 Outro
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