The latest on Israel's attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon
Hezbollah and Israel: A Decades-Long Conflict #
Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Islamist movement, is known for its powerful paramilitary force in the Middle East. The group’s main base is along the Israel-Lebanon border, where tensions have escalated due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Skirmishes between Hezbollah and Israel have raised concerns about a potential wider regional conflict.
Historical Context #
Israeli Invasion of Lebanon #
In 1982, Israeli forces invaded Lebanon, occupying nearly half of the country’s territory, including Beirut. This operation resulted in thousands of deaths, including a massacre at the Beirut refugee camps of Sabra and Shatila. An investigation held Israel indirectly responsible for the massacre carried out by right-wing Christian Lebanese fighters.
Emergence of Hezbollah #
As Palestinian fighters left Lebanon, a group of Shia Islamist fighters trained by Iran emerged. This group was linked to attacks on US targets in Beirut in the early 1980s. In 1985, these militants formally organized under the name Hezbollah.
Recent Developments #
Regional Alliance #
Hezbollah is part of a larger Iran-led alliance of militant groups across several Middle Eastern countries. This alliance has increased its engagement with Israel since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, describing itself as a ‘supportive front’ for Palestinians in Gaza.
Escalation of Tensions #
Tensions escalated further when Israel reported killing a senior Hezbollah military commander in Beirut. In response, Hezbollah launched numerous drones and missiles at targets in Israel.
Displacement of Residents #
The ongoing conflict has forced many residents from their homes in both northern Israel and southern Lebanon. Israeli officials are now focusing on returning displaced residents to the northern border region, while Lebanon reports significant displacement in its southern areas.
Recent Attack #
Hezbollah confirmed the death of another senior commander in an airstrike on a residential building in Beirut. This attack followed a series of small explosions targeting Hezbollah communication devices, resulting in numerous casualties.
The situation remains tense, with both sides continuing to engage in military actions and the potential for further escalation in the region.