does the ban in effect right now (which i am sure it will go worldwide) only for cameras or does it include lenses too. i know the laptops and ipad are out, if we can take lenses with us, then renting a body or arranging for shipment of just a body (ies) won't be as bad. i couldn't find info on this
Ok, I am going to address the actual question: Would it cover lenses?
I suspect legally this is going to depend on the exact wording of the ban. I also suspect trying to argue fine points of law with the security staff in most airports is not going to get you very far towards your destination. Also, good luck explaining that your manual focus lens doesn't have a motor so isn't an "electronic device" while an autofocus lens has a motor, so is an "electronic device".
Logically, I would have thought, given that many lenses have metal cases, they should actually be covered by the laptop ban because they present the same security risk: The x-ray machine can't see inside a metal case, and they can't reasonably ask you to open a lens for inspection. There really aren't that many commonly carried consumer goods with large cavities wrapped in a metal shell that can't be opened. Laptops and camera lenses are the two main candidates I can think of. Even my camera body I am happy to strip down (AKA take the lens off!) if they want to inspect inside it!
Honestly, in that regard, I have felt for years that laptops presented an enormous security risk, as many have metal cases so short of reaching for a screw-driver you can't tell what is inside.