Hizbullah: The Untold Story of Lebanon's Controversial Political Force

 

Hizbullah (also spelled Hezbollah) is a powerful Shi’a Islamist political and militant group based in Lebanon. Established in the early 1980s, it has played a central role in Lebanese politics, regional conflicts, and the broader geopolitics of the Middle East. Its activities span military engagements, political operations, social services, and religious influence, making it a complex and significant entity in the region.

This article aims to provide an in-depth overview of Hizbullah’s history, structure, ideology, political influence, and the group’s impact on Lebanon and the wider region.

Origins of Hizbullah

Formation in the Early 1980s
Hizbullah was formed in 1982 during the Lebanese Civil War, largely in response to Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon. The group emerged from the Shi’a community, which had been historically marginalized in Lebanese society. It was initially supported and funded by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with the intent to resist Israeli occupation and promote the principles of Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Hizbullah’s founders were influenced by Ayatollah Khomeini’s vision of political Islam, which emphasized resistance to imperialism, social justice, and the establishment of a government based on Islamic principles. The group sought to position itself as the defender of Lebanon’s Shi’a population, which at the time faced not only Israeli military presence but also internal marginalization within Lebanon’s multi-confessional political system.

Key Events in Hizbullah’s History

1. 1982 Israeli Invasion and Resistance
   The invasion of Lebanon by Israel in 1982 was a turning point for Hizbullah. The group framed itself as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation. Over time, Hizbullah’s military wing became increasingly effective at carrying out guerrilla warfare, culminating in the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000. This victory significantly boosted Hizbullah’s popularity, not only among Shi’a Muslims but also across wider Lebanese and Arab society.

2. The 2006 Israel-Hizbullah War
   Another defining moment came in July 2006 when tensions between Israel and Hizbullah erupted into a full-scale war. The conflict lasted 34 days, resulting in widespread destruction in Lebanon, especially in the south and the capital Beirut. Despite the heavy casualties and infrastructural damage, Hizbullah claimed victory by standing its ground and preventing Israel from achieving its objectives. This further bolstered the group’s status as a symbol of Arab resistance against Israeli military dominance.

3. Hizbullah’s Involvement in the Syrian Civil War
   Starting in 2011, Hizbullah became heavily involved in the Syrian Civil War, siding with the regime of President Bashar al-Assad. The group justified its intervention by framing it as a fight against terrorism and extremism, but its involvement was also rooted in strategic interests. Syria had long been a key ally of Hizbullah, and the fall of Assad’s government would have jeopardized the group’s supply routes and support networks, including Iranian assistance. Hizbullah’s role in the Syrian conflict, while ensuring Assad’s survival, also led to criticism within Lebanon and the broader region.

Ideology and Goals

Religious and Political Vision
Hizbullah’s ideology is rooted in Shi’a Islam, particularly in the teachings of Ayatollah Khomeini, who advocated for "wilayat al-faqih" (the rule of the Islamic jurist). This principle guides Hizbullah’s approach to governance and leadership, with loyalty to Iran’s Supreme Leader seen as paramount. The group envisions an Islamic state in Lebanon, but this ambition has been tempered by the country’s multi-confessional makeup.

Resistance to Israel and the West
Hizbullah’s primary stated objective has long been the liberation of Jerusalem and the dismantling of the Israeli state, which it views as illegitimate. It opposes Western, particularly American, involvement in the Middle East, which it sees as neo-colonial in nature. The group also frames its struggle as part of a broader fight against imperialism, Zionism, and the subjugation of Muslim nations.

Political Pragmatism
Although Hizbullah maintains a long-term vision of establishing an Islamic government, it has shown considerable pragmatism in navigating Lebanon’s political landscape. The group participates in Lebanon’s parliamentary system, aligning itself with various Christian, Sunni, and Druze parties to gain political legitimacy and influence. It has become an essential player in Lebanese politics, balancing its revolutionary rhetoric with practical involvement in government.

Political and Military Structure

Political Wing
Hizbullah’s political wing operates within Lebanon’s confessional political system, which allocates power based on religious sects. The group entered mainstream politics in the 1992 parliamentary elections, winning seats and establishing itself as a political force. It now holds a significant number of seats in the Lebanese parliament and has representatives in the cabinet.

Through its political engagement, Hizbullah has been able to influence key policies and decisions in Lebanon, including foreign policy, defense strategy, and security matters. Despite being a powerful political player, the group has maintained an image of being independent from traditional political corruption, which has endeared it to many supporters.

Military Wing – The Islamic Resistance
Hizbullah’s military wing, known as the Islamic Resistance, is widely regarded as one of the most formidable non-state military forces in the world. It operates with substantial autonomy, independent of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and has been heavily involved in conflicts against Israel, as well as the Syrian Civil War.

The military wing is well-trained and equipped, thanks to consistent support from Iran, including financial aid, advanced weaponry, and military training. Hizbullah’s forces are trained in guerrilla tactics, missile warfare, and intelligence operations, and the group has developed a sophisticated underground infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

Hizbullah’s Social and Economic Role

Social Services
Hizbullah operates an extensive network of social services, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and welfare programs. These institutions are critical in providing for the needs of Lebanon’s Shi’a population, particularly in the impoverished southern regions and the Bekaa Valley. Through these services, Hizbullah has been able to solidify its support base, not just as a military or political organization but as a provider of essential services in the absence of an effective state.

Economic Influence
Hizbullah is believed to have access to significant financial resources, partly due to funding from Iran and donations from supporters around the world. It is also engaged in various businesses and economic activities in Lebanon and abroad. This financial strength enables Hizbullah to sustain its military and social operations, even in times of economic downturn or conflict.

Hizbullah’s Role in Lebanese Society

Hizbullah’s influence in Lebanon is multifaceted. While it is a political and military entity, it also plays a significant social and cultural role, especially among the country’s Shi’a population. Hizbullah’s leadership has successfully cultivated an image of being both a protector and provider for the Shi’a community, filling the gaps left by the Lebanese state.

However, Hizbullah’s power has also been a source of tension in Lebanon. Critics, both within and outside Lebanon, argue that Hizbullah’s military capabilities undermine the sovereignty of the Lebanese state, as it operates independently of the national army. Its involvement in the Syrian Civil War, and its loyalty to Iran, have also drawn criticism from various political factions in Lebanon, particularly among Sunni Muslims and other sects who view Hizbullah as a destabilizing force.

International Relations and Designation as a Terrorist Organization

Hizbullah’s activities have drawn international attention and criticism, particularly from the United States, Israel, and several European countries. The group is designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., the European Union, the Arab League, and other nations, mainly due to its militant actions against Israel and its involvement in acts of violence across the region. Hizbullah’s role in supporting groups like Hamas in Palestine and its ties to Iran has further solidified its position as an adversary of Western and Israeli interests in the Middle East.

Despite this, Hizbullah also enjoys significant support from countries like Iran and Syria, which see the group as a key ally in their efforts to counterbalance Western and Israeli influence in the region. Hizbullah has been able to maintain this dual identity—both as a legitimate political actor in Lebanon and as a militant resistance movement.

Conclusion: Hizbullah’s Enduring Influence

Hizbullah is more than just a political or militant organization; it is a movement deeply entrenched in the social, political, and religious fabric of Lebanon. Its role as both a resistance force and a political player gives it unique leverage in the region. With significant support from Iran and its complex network of political, social, and military structures, Hizbullah continues to shape not only Lebanon’s future but also the broader dynamics of the Middle East.

While some view Hizbullah as a symbol of resistance and empowerment for marginalized communities, others see it as a destabilizing force that undermines national sovereignty and promotes sectarian divisions. Regardless of these perspectives, Hizbullah’s influence and legacy in Lebanon and the region are undeniable.