Not Just Missiles in the Crosshairs: The 'Quiet War' Draining Hezbollah's Coffers

Israel and the US are waging a campaign to cut off Hezbollah's funding, including strikes on banks, money changers, and gas stations, and pressure on Lebanon. According to the New York Times, the organization is suffering its worst economic pressure in years: compensation to families has stopped, social services have been reduced, and Iranian aid is insufficient. Assad's fall cut off cash routes, and Lebanon suspended flights from Iran.

Israel and the United States are waging a broad campaign to block Hezbollah's funding channels, aiming to undermine its ability to pay fighters, rebuild infrastructure, and operate its welfare network. According to a comprehensive report by the New York Times, co-authored by ynet journalist Ronen Bergman, the organization is facing the most severe economic pressure it has experienced in years. The campaign includes strikes on branches of Al-Qard Al-Hasan, money changers, and gas stations, as well as pressure on the Lebanese government to tighten financial oversight. Following the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the main land route for transferring money from Iran was cut off, and Lebanon suspended flights from Iran. Hezbollah spokesman Youssef al-Zein admitted that compensation payments to families whose homes were destroyed have stopped, and social services have been reduced. Despite increased Iranian aid, it is insufficient to cover war expenses. However, Hezbollah's financial system is secretive, and the organization may find new ways to funnel money.