Hezbollah is a powerful militant and political group in Lebanon, backed by Iran and considered an enemy of Israel by many in the international community. The organization has an arsenal of tens of thousands of rockets aimed at Israel, as well as a sizable force of ground troops. But what else makes Hezbollah such a formidable force?
Hezbollah is a well-funded and politically powerful organization that has had a significant role in Lebanon since its inception in 1982. It has its own militia, Secretary General, and substantial political clout. Hezbollah draws its funding mostly from Iran, which provides the group with millions of dollars annually and arms it with weapons ranging from small arms to ballistic missiles.
Hezbollah also engages in international activities beyond its border with Israel. It has participated in conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and the Gaza Strip. In addition, the organization has built its own infrastructure in Lebanon, providing social services and running a television network and newspapers. This gives Hezbollah an influential grass roots political base in Lebanon, making it particularly difficult for the Lebanese government to challenge its power.
Hezbollah is adept at employing a combination of forces – military and political – to advance its interests. This has helped it gain a great deal of support from the Lebanese population, despite its extreme ideology. Hezbollah was even able to obtain 30 seats in the Lebanese parliament in the 2018 elections.
Finally, Hezbollah has proven itself to be a disciplined, organized, and capable force on the battlefield. The group has gone up against Israeli forces on several occasions and has emerged victorious each time. This has only served to bolster its reputation as an effective and resilient force in the region.
Given its resources, political influence, and formidable battlefield capability, Hezbollah is an organization that cannot be ignored. While it remains an enemy of Israel, the international community must approach the group with caution and understanding.
