Contexts

The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has escalated dramatically in recent months, marked by the recent killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut. This attack, which also claimed the lives of several other Hezbollah commanders, has intensified the ongoing exchanges of fire across the Lebanese-Israeli border that began in October 2023, coinciding with the war on Gaza. As the situation deteriorates, both sides have engaged in a series of retaliatory strikes, with Israel targeting numerous Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley. Hezbollah, a powerful Iranian-backed militia, has been a significant player in the region since its formation during the Israeli occupation of Lebanon in the 1980s. By 1985, the group had grown strong enough to force Israeli troops to withdraw to the Litani River, establishing a so-called 'security zone' that was policed by the South Lebanon Army, an Israeli proxy. Over the years, Hezbollah has transitioned from a militant group to a political force, securing a substantial presence in Lebanon's parliament. The most violent confrontation between the two sides occurred in 2006, following Hezbollah's kidnapping of Israeli soldiers, which led to a month-long war resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The conflict has continued to evolve, with Hezbollah now estimated to possess around 150,000 rockets, posing a serious threat to Israeli cities. In response, Israel has bolstered its air defenses, preparing for the possibility of a new war. As the situation remains volatile, the international community watches closely, concerned about the potential for a broader regional conflict. The ongoing violence has already displaced thousands and left a trail of destruction, with both Hezbollah and Israel vowing to continue their fight, each claiming to defend their sovereignty and interests in a deeply divided region.