Israel confirms destruction of Hezbollah stronghold valued in millions
In their latest assaults on Hezbollah's economic foundation in Lebanon, Israel claims to have struck a subterranean hideout filled with millions in cash and gold. "One of our key focuses during last night's operation was an underground vault containing millions in cash and gold," shared Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari. The funds were "allocated for Hezbollah's aggression against Israel."
Media outlet ANI reported at least 11 assaults in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, particularly focusing on facilities belonging to the company Al-Kard Al-Hassan. Additionally, attacks were reported in Hermel, Rijak, and Baalbek in the Bekaa Valley's eastern territory, as well as near Beirut's airport.
As per the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Al-Kard Al-Hassan acts as a cover for Hezbollah to shroud their financial activities and gain entrance into the global financial system. A high-ranking official from Israel's intelligence agency described the company as a crucial component of Hezbollah's financial network, which supports their operations and provides paychecks to their fighters.
"Demolish the enemy in all border communities"
ANI reported on Monday that the Israeli military had demolished houses in a border village in southern Lebanon. Fierce clashes are taking place between Hezbollah and the Israeli military, with the latter striving to gain ground in the region. Al-Jazeera broadcast footage of Israeli tanks positioned adjacent to the village.
Defense Minister of Israel, Joav Gallant, said the army was currently escalating its attacks on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. "Not only are we defeating the enemy, but we are annihilating them in all border communities," Gallant stated during a visit to northern Israel on Sunday.
In the meantime, Hezbollah asserted that they had struck Israeli soldiers in numerous border villages in southern Lebanon. They launched multiple rocket assaults on Israeli troops in the eastern outskirts of Markaba.
UN peacekeeping force caught in the crossfire
Meanwhile, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) accused Israel of intentionally destroying one of its observation towers. An Israeli military bulldozer wrecked a fence and the tower of a UN position in Marwahin in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL disclosed. The peacekeeping force also emphasized that they would "persevere in their positions despite the pressure being exerted."
In the ongoing conflict between the Israeli military and Hezbollah, which has heightened in recent weeks, the UN peacekeeping force is increasingly becoming embroiled. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently urged the UN to withdraw the mission from the conflict zone.
Following the Hamas's extensive attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent Gaza war, Hezbollah opened a secondary front against Israel with constant rocket attacks on the nation's north. Israel retaliated by targeting sites in Lebanon. In recent weeks, the Israeli military has significantly intensified its airstrikes in Lebanon and also launched ground operations against Hezbollah positions around three weeks ago.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will embark on another Middle East trip on Monday. During his visit to Israel and Arab countries until Friday, as announced by the U.S. State Department, Blinken will discuss "ending the war in Gaza, securing the release of all hostages, and alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people."
The following paragraphs shall apply: In response to these escalating tensions, the international community, including relevant governments and global organizations, should express their concerns and urge de-escalation. It is crucial to uphold international law and promote peace in the region. Furthermore, any actions taken should avoid causing harm to civilians or civilian infrastructure, such as UN peacekeeping missions.
