Lebanon Officially Revokes "Al-Qard Al-Hasan" License in Response to American Pressure
July 18, 2025106 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
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In a move described as pivotal in the financial confrontation with Hezbollah, Lebanese authorities have begun taking decisive actions against "Al-Qard Al-Hasan", the party's financial arm, amid increasing American pressures.
The Central Bank of Lebanon has issued a decision prohibiting all licensed financial institutions from engaging directly or indirectly with "Al-Qard Al-Hasan".
This decision marks the beginning of further anticipated steps, according to insider sources.
* Towards Complete Closure
Information indicates that the Central Bank's decision will be followed by a governmental decision taken in the Council of Ministers to revoke the license granted to "Al-Qard Al-Hasan" years ago, paving the way for the closure of all its branches spread across Lebanon, exceeding 30 branches, most of which are in predominantly Shia areas in the southern suburbs of Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa.
Authorities will also proceed to close all exchange institutions proven to be involved in any financial or service transactions with Hezbollah.
* Response to Washington's Demands
The Lebanese action comes in response to repeated American demands conveyed during official visits, notably by Morgan Ortagus, former US Deputy Envoy, and recently reiterated by US Envoy Tom Brak during his last two visits to Beirut.
The United States had classified "Al-Qard Al-Hasan" as a terrorist-supporting entity and imposed sanctions on seven senior officials within it, as part of its efforts to cut off Hezbollah's sources of funding.
* Hezbollah's Treasury under Fire
"Al-Qard Al-Hasan", operating under a legal cover with a government license for years, is known as "Hezbollah's Treasury", providing non-traditional financial services to the party's followers.
During the recent war, it was directly targeted by Israel, with several of its branches being bombed.
This Lebanese move, described by US Envoy Brak as a "step in the right direction", represents a significant escalation in efforts to control illicit financing in the country, especially amidst the worsening financial crisis and political pressures.
