Lina Khatib, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and director at the SOAS Middle East Institute, dives into the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. She discusses the devastating humanitarian impact, with thousands dead and millions displaced amid recent attacks. Khatib traces the complex history from the Israeli invasions of Lebanon to Hezbollah's rise as a political force. She also evaluates the ongoing conflict, the struggle of Lebanese civilians, and the implications for peace in the region.
The longstanding sectarian divisions in Lebanon significantly shape the ongoing conflict, complicating the political landscape and fueling violence.
Hezbollah's evolution from a resistance militia to a major political force exemplifies the intertwining of local and regional hostilities in Lebanon.
Deep dives
Current Humanitarian Crisis in Lebanon
The ongoing conflict in Lebanon has escalated dramatically, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities, 10,000 injuries, and significant displacement. The Israeli military strikes, aimed at targeting Hezbollah positions, have led to tragic civilian casualties, indicating that residential areas are caught in the crossfire. Israel's ground invasion and relentless bombing campaigns have also injured UN peacekeepers, raising concerns about their safety and the nature of their mission in the region. Widespread destruction and loss of life underscore the urgent need for a ceasefire to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in this conflict.
Historical Context of Lebanon's Sectarian Conflict
The origins of the current conflict can be traced back to the complex sectarian divisions within Lebanon, which have influenced the political landscape since the country's establishment. Lebanon has historically had a power-sharing system among its diverse religious communities, including Christians and Muslims, which has led to compounded tensions instead of unity. The influx of Palestinian refugees following the establishment of Israel in 1948 added another layer of complexity, as their presence further inflamed existing sectarian strife and contributed to the Lebanese Civil War. This civil conflict paved the way for the formation of various militias, including Hezbollah, illustrating how historical grievances have continued to shape the state of affairs in Lebanon.
Hezbollah's Role in the Conflict
Hezbollah emerged in the 1980s as a response to the Israeli occupation and has since transformed from a resistance militia into a powerful political force in Lebanon. Basing its claim to arms on the need to defend the country against Israeli aggression, Hezbollah has positioned itself as essential for Lebanon's security, which complicates its relationship with the Lebanese state. This dual identity as both a political party and a militia has enabled Hezbollah to operate independently, often disregarding state authority and fueling internal conflicts. As regional interests, particularly Iran's, become enmeshed with Hezbollah's actions, the potential for exacerbating the cycle of violence remains high, making Lebanon vulnerable to external pressures.
Tensions are escalating between Israel and Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy militia in Lebanon. Attacks on both sides have led to thousands dead and over a million people internally displaced. The latest confrontations come after decades of conflict, so where did it all begin?
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Guest: Lina Khatib, associate fellow at Chatham House, director of the SOAS Middle East Institute, and contributor to The Times.