Hezbollah is dragging Lebanon into the war on Iran, but the militia is a shadow of the force it once was
Hezbollah is dragging Lebanon into the war on Iran, but the militia is a shadow of the force it once was
Israel’s escalating strikes against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah have pushed Lebanon closer to being fully engulfed in the broader conflict with Iran. The government, struggling to maintain stability, seeks to prevent further involvement in the regional confrontation. Recent Israeli advances in southern Lebanon, including air raids and ground operations, have intensified pressure on the country’s political leaders.
In the early hours of Monday, Hezbollah executed its first cross-border attack since late 2024 by targeting an Israeli military base near Haifa. The group deployed missiles and a swarm of drones, signaling its determination to retaliate against the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This move was framed as a demonstration of Hezbollah’s lingering capability to act on behalf of Tehran, despite its diminished resources.
Following the initial strike, Hezbollah launched additional drone attacks, citing Israeli aggression as the trigger. The group’s statements emphasize its focus on striking radar installations and control rooms at an Israeli airbase in the north. However, the once formidable militia now appears significantly weakened, with its leadership and infrastructure under siege.
Lebanon’s Fragile Position
Hezbollah faces growing political challenges within Lebanon as the government moves to restrict its military operations. A recent decree officially bans the militia’s armed activities, aiming to shield the nation from further Israeli retaliation. This decision has heightened tensions between the national military and Hezbollah, which remains a key player in Lebanese politics.
“We will not allow the country to be dragged into new adventures, and we will take all necessary measures to stop those responsible and protect the Lebanese people,” said Nawaf Salam, the prime minister, in a Monday post on X.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces have increased their presence near the Lebanese border, mobilizing thousands of reservists. This has sparked concerns about a potential ground invasion, with speculation that Israel aims to dismantle Hezbollah permanently. Despite claims of a defensive posture, the situation underscores Israel’s strategic intent to resolve the conflict decisively.
Hezbollah’s current state of vulnerability has shifted Iran’s position in the region. Once a reliable proxy, the militia’s diminished strength makes it easier for Israel to target. The group’s weakened status has placed it in the crosshairs of Israeli attacks, rather than as a formidable threat to the Islamic Republic.