Israel and Hezbollah, embroiled in almost a year of clashes, are currently in intense confrontations that have the potential to escalate into a full-scale war. Unlike Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Hezbollah poses a more formidable challenge to Israel, considered by many as the most powerful paramilitary force in the region due to its association with Iran and its significant political and social influence in Lebanon.
Hezbollah, founded in 1982 during Lebanon’s civil war, initially aimed to end Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon. Although achieving this goal in 2000, the group continues to seek Israel’s destruction. As a Shiite Muslim organization, Hezbollah is part of the Axis of Resistance, a coalition of Iranian-backed entities promoting political Islamism.
In addition to its military activities, Hezbollah functions as a political party in Lebanon, with representatives in the parliament and a long-standing presence in government. The group also offers extensive social services, such as running schools and health clinics, particularly in regions where it holds sway, like southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah, labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. due to past attacks on American interests, including the infamous 1983 Marine Corps barracks bombing in Beirut, has solidified its position in Lebanon with support from Iran. Over the years, Hezbollah’s military capabilities have expanded significantly, as demonstrated by its involvement in conflicts like the Syrian civil war and its substantial arsenal of rockets and missiles, estimated at around 150,000 by Israel.
Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who took the helm in 1992, is a revered figure among supporters for his role in compelling Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon and the 2006 war. However, critics within Lebanon accuse him of aligning the country too closely with Iran. Nasrallah, known for his pragmatism and ability to make political compromises, has maintained a clandestine lifestyle to evade potential Israeli assassination attempts and frequently addresses the public from undisclosed locations.
Recent developments include Hezbollah’s introduction of new weaponry, including explosive drones and surface-to-air missiles, during the conflict with Israel, marking a significant escalation. The group suffered a setback with the explosion of thousands of its communication devices in Lebanon, resulting in casualties, a blow believed to be orchestrated by Israel. Amid mounting tensions and the risk of an all-out war, the dynamics between Israel and Hezbollah continue to shape the volatile landscape of the Middle East.