BEIRUT, Oct 21 — Israel has intensified its airstrikes on Lebanese branches of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, an association accused of financing Hezbollah, as tensions escalate in the ongoing conflict.*

Late yesterday, Lebanese state media reported 11 strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and other regions, including the Bekaa Valley, targeting the association. Strikes also occurred near Beirut's airport, a key humanitarian entry point.

Hezbollah claimed to have downed an Israeli drone and fired rocket salvos at Israeli troops across the border. The Israeli military has increased its focus on Hezbollah, aiming to dismantle its operational capabilities, and warned civilians to avoid Al-Qard Al-Hassan facilities before the strikes began.

In southern Lebanon, the UN peacekeeping force reported that the Israeli military deliberately damaged a UN position. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed that operations would intensify to neutralize Hezbollah launchpads.

The situation in southern Lebanon has dramatically changed, with once-bustling streets now silent. The Israeli military stated it had killed over 65 Hezbollah militants, while Hezbollah retaliated with rocket attacks into Israel, targeting military bases.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with 1,470 reported deaths in Lebanon and over 42,600 in Gaza since hostilities erupted last month.