Cutting the Cord: IDF Strikes Hezbollah’s "Al-Amana" Gas Station Empire

In the latest wave of attacks, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) struck five Al-Amana targets across Southern Lebanon, following a previous wave that took out an equal number of sites.

• The Network: Al-Amana operates approximately 50 gas stations and 15 distribution centers nationwide, primarily concentrated in Shia population centers like Southern Lebanon, the Beqaa Valley, and Beirut.
• The Background: Established in 2005 under the "Atlas" conglomerate, the company was originally managed by the Iranian Martyrs' Foundation before being transferred to Hezbollah’s economic portfolio. It is currently led by CEO Kassem Muhammad Ali Bazzi.
• Global Sanctions: In 2020, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Atlas and Al-Amana for their direct role in financing and facilitating terrorist activities.

Military officials emphasize that these stations are far more than civilian fueling points. They are integral to Hezbollah’s military machine:

• Operational Logistics: The stations provide the fuel necessary for Hezbollah’s vehicles during routine operations and emergencies, particularly since the start of Operation "Lion's Roar."
• Strategic Hubs: These locations serve as pre-designated meeting points for military operatives transitioning from routine to emergency combat status.
• The "Black Bank": Al-Amana generates millions of dollars in annual profit. According to defense data, these funds do not benefit Lebanese civilians; instead, they flow directly into Al-Qard al-Hassan, Hezbollah’s shadow banking system, to fund weapons and salaries.