### Israel Strikes Hezbollah Financial Sites in Beirut Amid Escalating Tensions

Israel intensified its air campaign in Lebanon overnight, focusing largely on southern Beirut, targeting what it called the financial hubs of Hezbollah. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported conducting localized ground operations in southern Lebanon to dismantle militant positions. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz declared, "We will keep striking the Iranian proxy until it collapses."

The airstrikes caused smoke to rise over Beirut's southern suburbs shortly after Israel issued warnings for people to vacate areas near branches of the Hezbollah-linked al-Qard al-Hasan Association. This financial institution, operating in multiple locations across Lebanon, offers banking services and is perceived by U.S. and Israeli officials as Hezbollah's unofficial bank. It has gained increased relevance amid the collapse of Lebanon's traditional banking sector.

In response to escalating hostilities, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarked on a multi-nation trip, including a visit to Israel, to seek an end to the ongoing war in Gaza following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Blinken is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem and Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv to discuss the ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Amidst ongoing airstrikes in Gaza, reports emerged of significant civilian casualties, with local authorities stating at least 73 people were killed in recent strikes. The intensified military actions have drawn international attention as efforts to mediate and de-escalate increase. U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein visited Lebanon in a bid to mediate the conflict and prevent further escalation.

Reports from the ground in Gaza reveal dire conditions as hospitals, like al-Awda in Jabalya, struggle to cope with the influx of war casualties. Despite an Israeli evacuation order, surgeons like Bakr Abu Safeya have remained, offering a glimpse into the humanitarian crisis unfolding within the enclave's medical facilities.

In Beirut, the IDF claimed to have hit more than 20 targets, with a key focus on an underground warehouse allegedly housing cash and gold used by Hezbollah. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has labeled al-Qard al-Hasan a "terrorist organization," affirming Israel’s intention to expand its economic crackdown on Hezbollah.

As the situation remains fluid, calls for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian relief for civilians affected by the conflict are growing louder on the international stage.