By William J. Furney
As Israel intensifies its bombing campaign in Lebanon, the long-standing influence and power of Hezbollah within the country have come into sharper focus. Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long held sway in Lebanese politics and society, operating both as a political party and a paramilitary force. Its military capabilities often surpass those of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), making it a dominant player in the region, especially in the ongoing conflict with Israel.
Hezbollah’s military strength is significant, with upwards of 50,000 fighters and an arsenal that includes sophisticated rockets and missiles capable of reaching deep into Israel. Since its founding in the 1980s, Hezbollah has consistently expanded its influence, positioning itself as Lebanon’s de facto military power, particularly in southern Lebanon. This makes the group more formidable than the official Lebanese army, which is often constrained by a lack of funding and international political pressures.
With Israel having launched a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, Hezbollah has responded with sustained rocket attacks and strategic strikes on Israeli positions. The group’s long-standing rivalry with Israel has turned Lebanon into a key battleground in the broader regional conflict, which now includes the Gaza Strip and, increasingly, Iran.
Beyond its military capabilities, Hezbollah wields significant political power in Lebanon. It holds seats in the Lebanese parliament and plays a crucial role in the formation of government coalitions. This influence has enabled Hezbollah to operate autonomously, running schools, hospitals and welfare programs, further embedding itself in the fabric of Lebanese society. This dual role as both a political and military entity has allowed it to retain a stronghold over key areas, particularly in the south, where it acts as a buffer against Israeli incursions.
Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon also complicates the position of the Lebanese state, as the government often finds itself unable to control or limit the group’s activities. The LAF is significantly weaker in terms of military resources and personnel, leaving Hezbollah as the primary defender against Israeli actions, especially in times of conflict.
Israel’s recent bombing campaign, which escalated following Hamas’s attacks from Gaza, has expanded to include strikes on Hezbollah positions across Lebanon. Israel claims that its aim is to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, which it sees as a growing threat. But the intensity of the campaign has led to significant civilian casualties and displacement, with over 1,400 people killed and thousands more injured in the latest wave of bombings.
Despite Israel’s efforts to weaken Hezbollah, the group remains entrenched in Lebanese society and politics, making any military solution difficult and likely temporary. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about a wider regional war, as Hezbollah continues to engage in cross-border attacks, forcing Israel to defend on multiple fronts.
Hezbollah’s dominance in Lebanon, both politically and militarily, continues to shape the dynamics of the conflict with Israel. The group’s strength and its ties to Iran ensure that it remains a central player in the region, complicating any efforts at de-escalation or resolution. As the conflict intensifies, the potential for further destruction in Lebanon grows, with the Lebanese government largely sidelined by Hezbollah’s actions and Israel’s military objectives.
* Image shows Hezbollah figures engaged in a training programme in southern Lebanon in 2023. Credit: Tasnim News Agency.