Lebanon Divided: Hezbollah, Israel and the Cost of Resistance
Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues, and it is deepening divisions across Lebanon. Supporters of Hezbollah call the group “the resistance” and see the conflict as existential. Despite agreeing to a ceasefire, Israel still occupies parts of southern Lebanon and insists Hezbollah must disarm for there to be peace—a view shared by many Lebanese.
With communities split over Hezbollah’s future, The Guardian travels across Lebanon to find out how the conflict is widening divisions and affecting life across the country. The ongoing hostilities have not only caused physical destruction but have also deepened the political and social rifts that have long plagued the nation.
Hezbollah's Role and Public Perception
Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist political party and militant group, is considered a terrorist organization by many Western countries. However, within Lebanon, it enjoys significant support, particularly among Shia Muslims. For these supporters, Hezbollah is seen as a necessary force to defend Lebanon against Israeli aggression. The group’s military wing has been engaged in numerous conflicts with Israel, and its political arm holds seats in the Lebanese parliament.
Critics, however, argue that Hezbollah's actions have brought unnecessary hardship to Lebanon. They point to the devastation caused by the 2006 war and the current conflict, which has displaced thousands and crippled the economy. Many Lebanese, including some Shia, question whether the cost of resistance is too high.
Ceasefire and Occupation
In a recent development, a ceasefire was agreed upon, but Israel continues to occupy parts of southern Lebanon. This has created a tense and unstable situation. Israel insists that Hezbollah must disarm for any lasting peace, a condition that Hezbollah rejects. The group argues that its weapons are essential for Lebanon's defense.
The occupation has also fueled resentment among Lebanese, who see it as a violation of their sovereignty. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been deployed to monitor the ceasefire, but its effectiveness is limited.
Impact on Lebanese Society
The conflict has exacerbated existing divisions in Lebanese society. The country is already deeply divided along sectarian lines, with Shia, Sunni, Christian, and Druze communities often at odds. Hezbollah's role in the conflict has further polarized these groups.
Economically, the war has been devastating. Lebanon was already in the throes of a severe financial crisis, and the conflict has made things worse. Businesses have closed, tourism has plummeted, and the cost of living has skyrocketed. Many Lebanese are struggling to make ends meet.
Socially, the conflict has created a climate of fear and uncertainty. People are afraid to speak out against Hezbollah for fear of reprisals. At the same time, there is growing frustration with the group's dominance in Lebanese politics.
Voices from Across Lebanon
The Guardian spoke to people from different parts of Lebanon to understand their perspectives. In the south, where Hezbollah is strongest, supporters expressed unwavering loyalty. “Hezbollah is our shield,” said one resident. “Without them, Israel would have taken over.”
In Beirut, opinions were more mixed. Some praised Hezbollah for standing up to Israel, while others criticized the group for dragging the country into war. “We need peace, not more destruction,” said a shop owner in the capital.
In Christian areas, there was widespread opposition to Hezbollah. Many see the group as a proxy for Iran and blame it for Lebanon's problems. “Hezbollah is not fighting for Lebanon; it’s fighting for Iran,” said a priest in a village north of Beirut.
The Future of Lebanon
The conflict has left Lebanon at a crossroads. The country must decide whether to continue supporting Hezbollah's resistance or to pursue a different path. The international community has called for Hezbollah to disarm, but this seems unlikely without a comprehensive peace agreement with Israel.
For now, the divisions remain deep, and the cost of resistance continues to mount. As one Lebanese analyst put it, “Lebanon is paying the price for a conflict that is not of its making.” The road to peace will be long and difficult, but it is a journey that must be taken.
