Israel is stepping up its military campaign against Hezbollah, announcing that it will specifically target the financial networks of the Lebanon-based militant group and aims to strike numerous locations in Beirut and surrounding areas.
Explosions shook the southern suburbs of Beirut shortly after this announcement, indicating a significant escalation in hostilities.
Warnings for evacuation have been issued for southern Beirut, the eastern Bekaa Valley, and various locations in southern Lebanon. Notably, while strikes occurred near Beirut’s sole airport, the airport itself remains operational.
The Israeli military confirmed that their strikes will focus on al-Qard al-Hassan, a Hezbollah-linked organization that funds operatives and weapons purchases. An unnamed senior Israeli intelligence official reported that targeting this financial arm is central to crippling Hezbollah’s capabilities.
Hussein Malla/AP Photo
Al-Qard al-Hassan, a registered nonprofit and sanctioned entity by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, provides financial services to both Hezbollah and ordinary Lebanese citizens. It plays a crucial role in helping Hezbollah maintain its influence among Lebanon’s Shiite population amid a severe economic downturn.
David Asher, an expert on illicit finance, pointed out the potential impact of the strikes, remarking, “If these hits are successful, the cash will be worthless.” In response, al-Qard al-Hassan assured its clients that their funds are protected.
The situation has led to widespread confusion and panic, exemplified by a faulty evacuation notice that mistakenly identified a target as a cinema located over six miles away from the actual location.
Recognizing the escalating conflict, Israel’s military has increased its airstrikes in southern Beirut, hitting areas known to house Hezbollah strongholds while also affecting civilian areas.
Hussein Malla/AP Photo
In a recent escalation, the Lebanese army confirmed that three of its soldiers were killed in an Israeli strike, an act for which Israel has reportedly expressed remorse. The Lebanese military, despite its respected status, has largely remained on the sidelines due to its limited strength compared to Hezbollah.
In retaliation, Hezbollah fired more than 170 rockets into Israel on Sunday, injuring several individuals in Safed.
Tsafrir Abayov/AP Photo
As tensions rise, the U.N. peacekeeping force in the region, UNIFIL, has accused Israeli forces of demolishing their observation tower and surrounding fence in southern Lebanon, yet they have resisted calls to withdraw.
Following the tragic events of October 7 last year, when Hamas carried out a devastating attack that killed around 1,200 Israelis, the consequences have been immense. Israel’s subsequent military actions in Gaza have led to around 42,000 Palestinian deaths, per Gaza’s health ministry. Local health authorities do not separate civilian casualties from combatants, but many casualties reportedly include women and children.
In response to Hamas, Hezbollah began launching rockets and drones at Israel, escalating the conflict further. Since then, approximately 2,400 lives have been lost in Lebanon as Israel’s military operation continues.
The U.S. is currently examining reports suggesting that Israel is gearing up for potential military action against Iran following a missile strike in early October.
Meanwhile, Lebanon anticipates further strikes as Israel broadens its military operations in the region.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press