Hezbollah’s civil branches still operating in Lebanese Army pilot zone, researchers say

Hezbollah's civilian branches, including the Islamic Health Organization and the Wataawanou Association, continue to operate in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, a Lebanese Army pilot zone, according to the Alma Research and Education Center. The Wataawanou Association, which claims to provide aid to displaced persons, established a temporary center on July 29, hosting the village council and offering services to returning residents. Its head, Afif Shuman, confirmed the group does “support the resistance.” The center alleges these operations foster Hezbollah's social and economic influence and facilitate fundraising for its infrastructure, including through accounts at Hezbollah's al-Qard al-Hasan bank.