Whish Money Accounts Shutdown: Another Blow in Lebanon’s Financial Blockade

Lebanon is currently facing an ongoing financial blockade, marked by the recent closure of accounts belonging to associations and activists involved in vital reconstruction projects. The main culprit behind this disruption is Whish Money, a local money transfer company, which has cut off access to funds for community-driven initiatives aimed at rebuilding areas devastated by Israeli raids in September and October 2024.

Initially perceived as a mere banking issue, the account closures have revealed a more sinister agenda, highlighting a broader system of economic and security restrictions designed to stifle local efforts for recovery. Since the ceasefire agreement was signed last year, southern Lebanon has seen a surge in civil society initiatives, spearheaded by local villagers and organizations, to fill the void left by insufficient state and international support.

These grassroots initiatives, while modest, have proven effective, relying heavily on domestic donations and remittances from expatriates. They aim to provide essential services such as:

• Shelter for families who have lost their homes.
• Education for children affected by the crisis.
• Basic necessities to support daily living.

Unfortunately, these volunteer efforts have encountered significant organized challenges. Incidents of violence, such as the assassination of engineers and threats against activists, have created a hostile environment. This turmoil culminated in the financial blockade that has severely restricted community funding through local financial platforms, including the significant account closures by Whish Money.

The closure of accounts was not an isolated event; it coincided with a broader array of Western and American measures targeting Lebanon. These actions aim to establish a blockade against resistance efforts and hinder financial resources from reaching border areas. For instance, the account of Hussein Saleh, a member of the Ramia Municipal Council, was shut down in accordance with Circular No. 170 issued by the Banque du Liban. This has raised critical questions regarding the interplay between local banking decisions and outside directives from international financial institutions.

Moreover, reports indicate that many other accounts belonging to relief organizations and local associations were also closed, sparking outrage among residents in the southern regions. These actions are perceived as a new form of collective punishment against communities already struggling to recover.

The Wa Ta’awano Cooperative, which has played a crucial role in reconstructing damaged homes and setting up temporary educational facilities, expressed its disappointment over the closure of its donation account. Despite providing all necessary legal documentation to reactivate the account, the company has continued to refuse without clear justification. The cooperative articulated that this decision is part of a broader strategy aimed at undermining reconstruction efforts and supporting local residents.

In their statement, they highlighted that this development reflects a troubling alignment of a Lebanese company with international and Israeli policies designed to economically and humanely suffocate the southern regions of Lebanon.

With these financial channels cut off, civil society funding has nearly ground to a halt. Organizations that once relied on quick transfers via Whish Money now find themselves unable to deliver crucial aid to those in need. The repercussions of this blockade are severe, leading to a further exodus of residents from southern villages, who are unable to rebuild their homes or secure basic necessities for everyday life.

From a legal perspective, many observers agree that the situation transcends mere technical or legal matters. The closures are seen as an additional pressure tactic in a larger economic war waged by external powers against Lebanon, specifically targeting communities that resist ongoing U.S.-led Israeli aggression. Although military attacks have diminished, the financial warfare continues to unfold in more intricate and subdued forms, utilizing Lebanon’s economic and banking systems to achieve foreign political aims.

Despite these daunting challenges, the Lebanese experience illustrates the resilience of civil society. For instance, the Wa Ta’awano Cooperative has announced the establishment of a new account with Qard al-Hassan, enabling them to continue receiving contributions. This civil steadfastness, in the face of relentless pressure, showcases the unwavering resolve of the people of southern Lebanon to confront the blockade in all its manifestations. Their determination to rebuild what has been destroyed remains formidable, even in the face of banking restrictions.

In conclusion, the closure of accounts is merely the latest chapter in a series of prohibitive policies aimed at stifling the rebuilding of southern Lebanon. The overarching goal appears to be to limit reconstruction efforts to foreign terms. Nevertheless, history has shown that the collective will of the people, combined with civil solidarity, can effectively break through any siege, whether financial or military.