Israeli airstrikes target Hezbollah-linked bank branches in Beirut
Israeli airstrikes targeted branches of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, a bank linked to Hezbollah, in Lebanon late last night.
These branches, which serve civilians in Shia Muslim communities where Hezbollah has a strong influence, are often located on the ground floors of residential buildings in busy districts.
The bank has been under U.S. sanctions since 2007, accused of facilitating Hezbollah’s financial activities with Iranian support. The strikes occurred about 20 minutes after the Israeli military issued evacuation orders, hitting areas in southern Beirut, including Hezbollah strongholds. Chaos erupted as residents fled to safer locations, while thick plumes of smoke filled the air.
According to Lebanon’s state news agency, 11 strikes hit Dahieh in Beirut, with additional strikes in the south and Bekaa Valley. One attack took place near the country’s only functioning commercial airport.
These branches, which serve civilians in Shia Muslim communities where Hezbollah has a strong influence, are often located on the ground floors of residential buildings in busy districts.
The bank has been under U.S. sanctions since 2007, accused of facilitating Hezbollah’s financial activities with Iranian support. The strikes occurred about 20 minutes after the Israeli military issued evacuation orders, hitting areas in southern Beirut, including Hezbollah strongholds. Chaos erupted as residents fled to safer locations, while thick plumes of smoke filled the air.
According to Lebanon’s state news agency, 11 strikes hit Dahieh in Beirut, with additional strikes in the south and Bekaa Valley. One attack took place near the country’s only functioning commercial airport.