Rania Khalek Dispatches
Those Who Say Hezbollah is Finished Don’t Understand Its Origins and Evolution
Dec 20, 2024
Bashir Saade, an interdisciplinary lecturer and author, delves into the seismic shifts in the Middle East, particularly the transformation of Hezbollah amidst the turmoil in Gaza and Syria. He discusses Hezbollah's evolution from its militant origins to a complex political entity, balancing military actions with political engagement. Saade also explores Hezbollah's relationship with Iranian support, its ties to leftist movements in Lebanon, and the intricate leadership dynamics that shape its influence in the region. His insights reveal the organization's adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- Hezbollah's evolution from a militant group to a political party showcases its strategic adaptation to Lebanon's complex political landscape post-civil war.
- The Iranian Revolution significantly influenced Hezbollah's formation and strategies, intertwining its resistance identity with broader regional dynamics against imperialism.
Deep dives
Origins and Evolution of Hezbollah
Hezbollah was formed primarily as a response to the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon, beginning with the 1982 invasion. Initially, it operated as a militant group focused on expelling Israeli forces from Lebanon, successfully pushing them south of the Litani River. Over the years, Hezbollah transitioned from a guerrilla movement to a political party, especially after the Lebanese Civil War concluded in the 1990s. This evolution allowed Hezbollah to gain political power while still maintaining its armed resistance, distinguishing it from other Islamic movements in the region.
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