In a significant escalation of its military campaign, Israel has launched extensive air strikes targeting Hezbollah's financial infrastructure in Lebanon. Over the past 24 hours, Israeli forces have reportedly struck approximately 300 Hezbollah-associated sites, including the financial firm Al-Kard Al-Hassan. This firm, according to the U.S. Treasury Department, is allegedly used by Hezbollah to mask financial activities and access international financial systems.
The Israeli military claims that one of the primary targets was an underground bunker containing millions in cash and gold, purportedly used to fund Hezbollah's attacks on Israel. The Israeli army has not confirmed if all assets were destroyed, but highlighted a separate bunker under a Beirut hospital believed to contain significant funds. This claim has been refuted by the hospital's director, who invited inspections to disprove the allegations.
The offensive comes in the wake of a larger conflict triggered by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. In response, Hezbollah, allied with Hamas and Iran, opened a second front against Israel with persistent rocket attacks from Lebanon. Israel has since increased its military actions in Lebanon, including air and ground operations against Hezbollah positions.
The situation further intensified with Hezbollah's recent claim of a drone attack on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence. Israel has responded with additional air strikes and has called for evacuations in certain areas of Beirut. As tensions rise, the region remains on high alert, with both sides continuing to exchange military actions.
