Israel’s continued military operations in Lebanon are putting Hezbollah under pressure, but the strategy carries political risks. Analysts warn that a prolonged Israeli presence could fuel nationalist sentiment in Lebanon, giving Hezbollah an opportunity to rebuild support and resist disarmament.

Israel's military pressure could help Hezbollah regain influence

 Israel has barred a United Airlines pilot from serving as a crew member on flights entering Israeli airspace after reviewing social media allegations of support for Iran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Hezbollah, Channel 12 reported. The allegations remain unverified, and the restriction is reportedly largely procedural, as the pilot was not qualified to operate such flights.

Israel bars United Iranian-origin pilot after security review

Explosive-laden quadcopters are adding a new dimension to the fighting in southern Lebanon. Flying low over damaged buildings and dirt roads, the drones give operators a first-person view of Israeli military targets before striking. The footage highlights the growing role of low-cost FPV drones in modern warfare.

Group's fibre-optic drones pose new challenge for Israel

Israel has stepped up operations aimed at dismantling Hezbollah's military infrastructure, targeting networks reportedly developed over the past two decades. The move reflects a tougher Israeli approach toward the Iran-backed group and comes as tensions remain high across the region. The campaign is also widening political divisions within Lebanon, where debates over Hezbollah's influence and relationship with the government continue to intensify.


Israel moves to dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure 

Israel and Lebanon have shortlisted Britain, Italy, Switzerland, and Indonesia as potential contributors to a new international mechanism aimed at verifying Hezbollah's disarmament in southern Lebanon. The list emerged from US-mediated talks in Rome, with these countries possibly providing troops to observe or take part in weapons inspections.


UK, Italy, Switzerland, Indonesia shortlisted to monitor Hezbollah's disarmament

West Asia remains on edge as Iran and Oman move closer to finalizing a Strait of Hormuz shipping agreement while tensions continue to rise across the region. Israel has launched fresh strikes on southern Lebanon, with the IDF citing Hezbollah ceasefire violations. At the same time, Iran has reportedly warned Gulf nations that their energy infrastructure could become targets if they fail to persuade the United States to halt military action.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reportedly urged U.S. President Donald Trump to delay military action and prioritize diplomacy. Meanwhile, Washington continues to express frustration over stalled talks with Tehran, even as negotiations over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz continue through Oman.

Iran Warns Gulf States | Israel Strikes Lebanon as Hormuz Talks Continue | West Asia Crisis

West Asia is witnessing another dangerous escalation despite reports that Iran and Oman are close to finalizing a framework for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Fresh Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have heightened tensions, even as diplomatic efforts continue between Israel and Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly warned Gulf nations that any fresh U.S. military action could trigger retaliation against critical infrastructure, including oil fields, refineries, electricity grids, water facilities, and transport networks. The developments come as Washington continues to pursue negotiations with Tehran while expressing concerns over divisions within Iran's leadership.

As uncertainty grows over the future of the Hormuz shipping route and the fragile Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, fears of a broader regional conflict continue to mount.

Iran Warns Gulf States of Retaliation | Israel Launches Fresh Strikes on Lebanon | GRAVITAS 

U.S. President Donald Trump has once again postponed planned military strikes on Iran, claiming that the outlines of a peace deal are taking shape. However, Tehran has categorically denied asking Washington to halt the strikes, calling the allegations false. As tensions continue to simmer, Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia are reportedly urging de-escalation, fearing the devastating consequences of a wider regional conflict.

In this exclusive interview, Chris Doyle, Director of the Council for Arab-British Understanding (CAABU), analyzes the evolving crisis, Trump's repeated reversals, Iran's military strategy, the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, and the growing role of Gulf countries in preventing a full-scale regional war.

Can diplomacy still succeed, or is another military confrontation inevitable?

Watch the full analysis for the latest developments from the Middle East.

Iran-U.S. War: Trump Losing Credibility as Conflict Drags On, Expert Warns

The Israeli military says it has killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon despite an existing ceasefire, while an Israeli soldier was injured during operations. Israel says it targeted Hezbollah positions inside a security zone to eliminate threats against its forces.

The strikes come as the United Nations voices concern over extensive demolitions near Beaufort Castle, a UNESCO-listed heritage site recently added to the list of World Heritage in Danger. Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues to reject the US-backed framework agreement that calls for its disarmament and Israeli troop withdrawal.

Israel Kills Hezbollah Fighters Despite Ceasefire | UNESCO Site Damaged In Lebanon

The Israeli military says it has killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon despite an existing ceasefire, while confirming that one Israeli soldier was injured during the operation.

According to the Israeli military, the strikes targeted Hezbollah fighters inside what it described as a security zone. Israel maintains it will continue military operations to eliminate threats against its forces and civilians.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has expressed deep concern over Israel's large-scale detonations and demolitions in southern Lebanon, warning of severe damage to civilian infrastructure, cultural heritage, and local communities. The concerns come after explosions near the UNESCO-listed Beaufort Castle, recently added to the list of World Heritage sites in danger.

Israel Kills Hezbollah Fighters Despite Ceasefire | UN Sounds Alarm Over Lebanon Strikes

Israel says it has killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon despite an existing ceasefire, while reporting that an Israeli soldier was injured during operations. The Israeli military says it will continue targeting what it describes as Hezbollah threats inside a security zone.

The developments come as the United Nations voices concern over Israeli military actions, particularly after large-scale explosions near the UNESCO-listed Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues to reject calls for disarmament despite a U.S.-backed framework agreement aimed at reducing hostilities.

U.S. Running Out of Missiles? Israel-Hezbollah Clash Escalates Amid Iran War

Before its recent wars with Iran and against Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel’s air defence systems were considered by military experts as among the best, if not the best, in the world.&nbsp;However, as per experts, the recent wars and conflicts have exposed vulnerabilities in Israel’s defences, especially against drone attacks.&nbsp;Amid Iran’s growing drone attacks against American targets across West Asia, Israel’s government is reportedly considering a total ban on the use of civilian drones in Israeli airspace.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Israel’s N12 news, the reason is the growing fears of a potential Iranian attack against Israel.&nbsp;The report cited an Israeli security cabinet meeting at which the issue was discussed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The consideration of a total ban is reportedly due to the lack of effective counter-drone technologies in Israel, with concerns that an Iranian or Hezbollah attack would involve an increased use of drones.&nbsp;And there is recent history to this.&nbsp;Back in May, under a barrage of daily Hezbollah drone attacks, Israel’s defence forces reportedly started deploying hundreds of mesh nets to entangle and stop incoming Hezbollah first-person view drones.In fact, according to local media reports, Israel defence ministry in June reported that successful drone interception against Hezbollah drones stood at just 50%.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-mulls-national-drone-ban-after-iran-claims-to-have-tripled-drone-production-1784914914777/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-mulls-national-drone-ban-after-iran-claims-to-have-tripled-drone-production-1784914914777/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;So, amid the possibility of intense Iranian or Hezbollah drone attacks and uncertainties surrounding its countermeasures could Israel be limiting its airspace to identify and neutralise hostile drones more effectively?At the same time, Iran is claiming to have launched a series of drone attacks against American targets in West Asia.&nbsp;&nbsp;On wednesday, for example, the IRGC claimed to have struck US-linked targets in Bahrain as well as Jordanian air bases with explosive drones.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this month, in a post on X, Iran’s acting defence minister claimed the country had tripled its production of drones and further stating that Iranian drone operations had helped the country “identify the enemy’s weak points.”&nbsp;So, as Iran ramps up its drone production, Israel’s recent battlefield experiences appear to have impacted its domestic policies as well.

Back in May, Israel’s defence forces started deploying hundreds of mesh nets to entangle and stop incoming Hezbollah first-person view drones. Local media said the Israeli defence ministry reported a successful drone interception against Hezbollah drones of just 50% in June. 

Before its recent wars with Iran and against Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel’s air defence systems were considered by military experts as among the best, if not the best, in the world. However, as per experts, the recent wars and conflicts have exposed vulnerabilities in Israel’s defences, especially against drone attacks. Amid Iran’s growing drone attacks against American targets across West Asia, Israel’s government is reportedly considering a total ban on the use of civilian drones in Israeli airspace. According to Israel’s N12 news, the reason is the growing fears of a potential Iranian attack against Israel. The report cited an Israeli security cabinet meeting at which the issue was discussed. The consideration of a total ban is reportedly due to the lack of effective counter-drone technologies in Israel, with concerns that an Iranian or Hezbollah attack would involve an increased use of drones. And there is recent history to this. Back in May, under a barrage of daily Hezbollah drone attacks, Israel’s defence forces reportedly started deploying hundreds of mesh nets to entangle and stop incoming Hezbollah first-person view drones. In fact, according to local media reports, Israel defence ministry in June reported that successful drone interception against Hezbollah drones stood at just 50%. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-mulls-national-drone-ban-after-iran-claims-to-have-tripled-drone-production-1784914914777/embed So, amid the possibility of intense Iranian or Hezbollah drone attacks and uncertainties surrounding its countermeasures could Israel be limiting its airspace to identify and neutralise hostile drones more effectively? At the same time, Iran is claiming to have launched a series of drone attacks against American targets in West Asia. On wednesday, for example, the IRGC claimed to have struck US-linked targets in Bahrain as well as Jordanian air bases with explosive drones. Earlier this month, in a post on X, Iran’s acting defence minister claimed the country had tripled its production of drones and further stating that Iranian drone operations had helped the country “identify the enemy’s weak points.” So, as Iran ramps up its drone production, Israel’s recent battlefield experiences appear to have impacted its domestic policies as well.

Back in May, Israel’s defence forces started deploying hundreds of mesh nets to entangle and stop incoming Hezbollah first-person view drones. Local media said the Israeli defence ministry reported a successful drone interception against Hezbollah drones of just 50% in June.&nbsp;

Israel mulls national drone ban after Iran claims to have tripled drone production | Gravitas

The Lebanese Army is reportedly preparing to move into areas long considered Hezbollah strongholds, as regional dynamics continue to shift. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for the Lebanese government while also indicating openness to talks involving Hezbollah, raising fresh questions about the future of security and diplomacy in Lebanon.

Trump backs Lebanese government, open to Hezbollah talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Washington on Sunday — the first visit by a Lebanese head of state to the US capital since 2009. Rubio praised Lebanon's "courage" in working to disarm Hezbollah and reclaim state sovereignty, reaffirming US support for the Trilateral Framework agreed with Israel.


US Department of State: We are backing Lebanon's peace efforts

#Gravitas Lebanese authorities have arrested a man close to Hezbollah's core group, accusing him of spying for Israel's Mossad and of providing intel that led to the killing of at least four top commanders in the Iran-backed group. 


Lebanon arrests Israel spy who betrayed, killed Hezbollah leaders

Lebanese authorities have arrested a man accused of spying for Israel and allegedly infiltrating Hezbollah's internal network in what investigators describe as one of the most significant intelligence breaches faced by the Iran-backed group in recent years. According to Lebanese investigators, the suspect allegedly provided highly sensitive intelligence that helped Israel identify and target several senior Hezbollah military commanders during 2024, including Fouad Shukur and Ibrahim Akil. Officials say the suspect maintained close access to Hezbollah's leadership and reportedly met individuals linked to Israel's Mossad intelligence agency during trips to Turkey before passing information about targets in Beirut.

Hezbollah security breach: Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy linked to top commanders' killings

Lebanese authorities have arrested a man accused of working as an Israeli spy and allegedly infiltrating Hezbollah's internal network in one of the most significant counterintelligence cases in recent years. According to Lebanese investigators, the suspect is believed to have provided Israel with highly sensitive intelligence that allegedly helped identify targets for the assassinations of several senior Hezbollah military commanders during 2024. Reports claim the suspect maintained close access to Hezbollah's leadership and passed intelligence after meeting alleged Israeli intelligence operatives during trips abroad. Lebanese officials say he was arrested at Beirut's airport while attempting to leave the country for Iraq after months of surveillance.

Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy accused of infiltrating hezbollah &helping target top commanders

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have released footage showing what they describe as Hezbollah bunkers and underground infrastructure amid rising tensions in the region.
The development comes as clashes and security concerns continue along the Israel-Lebanon border.

Israel-Hezbollah Tensions: Secret Tunnel Used by Hezbollah Discovered by Israeli Military

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack fundamentally changed Israel's security doctrine. Israel now insists on maintaining buffer zones inside Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syria, arguing they are essential to prevent future attacks. While Israeli leaders say the policy is about national security, critics accuse Israel of prolonged military occupation and violating neighboring countries' sovereignty.

Israel says October 7 changed everything, Netanyahu defends buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon & Syria

Israel just announced a major shift in how it protects itself. Prime Minister Netanyahu says Israel’s security now "begins beyond its borders",  vowing to establish buffer zones inside Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. The move signals a rewrite of Israel’s security doctrine, moving from reactive defense to proactive occupation of border areas. 


Netanyahu says Israel's security begins beyond its borders

Mass funeral ceremonies were held for Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon, drawing large crowds of mourners and supporters. The events took place amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border and increased security in the region. The Deputy Mayor Kafrah spoke to WION, as concerns over further escalation continue.


WION in Lebanon: Kafrah deputy mayor says we are only defending our land .

Mass funeral ceremonies were held for Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon, drawing large crowds of mourners and supporters. The events took place amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border and increased security in the region. The Deputy Mayor Kafrah spoke to WION, as concerns over further escalation continue.

WION in Lebanon: Mass funerals held for Hezbollah fighters 

Just days after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a US-backed peace framework, Israel says it destroyed a large Hezbollah weapons tunnel in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has condemned the strike and warned that it could respond, raising questions over whether the ceasefire will hold.


Israel blows up Hezbollah tunnel, ceasefire comes under strain

Hezbollah’s leader on Saturday pilloried the Israel-Lebanon framework agreement signed in Washington as “null and void” and a surrender of Lebanon’s sovereignty, with the terror group’s top ally in Beirut’s parliament going as far as calling it an “incitement to civil war.”


Lebanon-Israel Peace Deal: Hezbollah Supporters Protest Against Trilateral Deal

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has said that the US-Israel-Lebanon framework is &nbsp;“humiliating, shameful, and a surrender of sovereignty”. He said that it was a major mistake by Lebanese authorities and accused them of effectively legitimising the Israeli occupation of Lebanon by signing the deal. He refused to connect withdrawl from southern Lebanon to the group’s disarmament. In a statement released on Saturday, Qassem said that the agreement was "null and void”. He suggested that the agreement should apply the framework of the US-Iranian agreement.“The framework agreement in Washington is humiliating, shameful, and a surrender of sovereignty. This agreement is null and void, and the provisions of the Iranian-American memorandum of understanding must be implemented,” said Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ketan-agarwal-nisha-parveen-media-bias-selective-outrage-india-1782559387961">Nisha Parveen and Ketan Agarwal: How sexism and xenophobia determine whose death matters</a>“We will continue as a resistance in the field to defeat the occupation. We will continue as a resistance in the field to defeat the occupation,” said Qaseem. He said linking Israeli withdrawl from Southern Lebanon is a “red line”, which will not be crossed. He warned that such a move would turn the Lebanese Government into an Israeli puppet.&nbsp;Qaseem also praised Iran's role in securing a ceasefire in Lebanon, calling it a “gift of honour, dignity and strength”. He said that it was a "powerful move" which secured the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon.The trilateral agreement signed between the US, Israel, and Lebanon in Washington aims to establish a sequenced process to end months of intense border conflict. However, it bypasses clause one of the US-Iran agreement brokered by Pakistan and GCC mediators, which mandates cessation of hostilities on all fronts and withdrawl of Israeli forces. The fiery rejection from Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has the potential to trigger a “civil war” in Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected the US-Israel-Lebanon framework as "humiliating" and "null and void," warning it legitimises Israeli occupation.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has said that the US-Israel-Lebanon framework is “humiliating, shameful, and a surrender of sovereignty”. He said that it was a major mistake by Lebanese authorities and accused them of effectively legitimising the Israeli occupation of Lebanon by signing the deal. He refused to connect withdrawl from southern Lebanon to the group’s disarmament. In a statement released on Saturday, Qassem said that the agreement was "null and void”. He suggested that the agreement should apply the framework of the US-Iranian agreement. “The framework agreement in Washington is humiliating, shameful, and a surrender of sovereignty. This agreement is null and void, and the provisions of the Iranian-American memorandum of understanding must be implemented,” said Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem. Also read: Nisha Parveen and Ketan Agarwal: How sexism and xenophobia determine whose death matters “We will continue as a resistance in the field to defeat the occupation. We will continue as a resistance in the field to defeat the occupation,” said Qaseem. He said linking Israeli withdrawl from Southern Lebanon is a “red line”, which will not be crossed. He warned that such a move would turn the Lebanese Government into an Israeli puppet. Qaseem also praised Iran's role in securing a ceasefire in Lebanon, calling it a “gift of honour, dignity and strength”. He said that it was a "powerful move" which secured the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon. The trilateral agreement signed between the US, Israel, and Lebanon in Washington aims to establish a sequenced process to end months of intense border conflict. However, it bypasses clause one of the US-Iran agreement brokered by Pakistan and GCC mediators, which mandates cessation of hostilities on all fronts and withdrawl of Israeli forces. The fiery rejection from Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has the potential to trigger a “civil war” in Lebanon.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected the US-Israel-Lebanon framework as "humiliating" and "null and void," warning it legitimises Israeli occupation.

Hezbollah's Naim Qassem calls US-Israel-Lebanon framework 'humiliating' warns against surrendering 'sovereignty'

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has firmly rejected any continuation of Israeli occupation, declaring that Lebanon will accept nothing less than a complete end to it. His remarks come as the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah remains under strain, with clashes continuing along the border. Aoun also called for an end to foreign tutelage, emphasizing Lebanon's sovereignty amid growing regional tensions and diplomatic uncertainty.


Israel-Lebanon War: Hezbollah Slams Israeli Attacks As 'Blatant Truce Violation'

Fresh diplomatic efforts are underway as Israel and Lebanon return to the negotiating table in Washington, but major differences remain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly refused to commit to a withdrawal from Lebanese territory, while Hezbollah has strongly denounced the talks. 


Israel And Lebanon Return To Negotiating Table In Washington

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has discussed a “deconfliction mechanism” for the country with United States Vice President JD Vance and the Qatari prime minister.

The phone call on Monday focused on consolidating the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese presidency said in a statement. The hostilities between the pair have seen the Israeli military occupy parts of southern Lebanon and launch repeated air raids while Hezbollah has attacked northern Israel.


Vance & Rubio Discuss Post-Ceasefire Arrangements in Lebanon

A fragile truce between Israel and Lebanon has left many families uncertain, torn between skepticism and cautious hope for lasting peace.

While diplomatic efforts aim to stabilize the region, civilians on both sides remain wary after years of escalating tensions and recurring violence along the border. For many, the announcement of a ceasefire brings relief — but not certainty about what comes next.

This report captures the emotional reality on the ground as communities continue to grapple with fear, loss, and the hope that this truce might hold.

Israel-Lebanon Truce: Families Skeptic, Still Cling To Hope

Lebanon is the key sticking point in the currently ongoing Iran-US peace talks as Tehran insists that Israel must end military operations on all fronts, including that country. Israel has repeatedly targeted the Shia group Hezbollah's alleged strongholds in southern Lebanon, killing dozens, which Lebanese authorities describe as civilians and Israel calls terrorists. Despite killing Hezbollah's long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah and carrying out extensive air and ground operations in southern Lebanon for months, Israel has not been able to eliminate the group, which is backed as a proxy by regional Shia power Iran. Why is it so difficult to defeat Hezbollah?<h2>Armed and legitimate: Why Hezbollah survives</h2>Hezbollah's strength comes from both the battle effectiveness of its armed wing and its political legitimacy in parts of Lebanon. Contrary to much Western media coverage, Hezbollah is not a rag-tag group of mercenaries or militants. Over the past four decades, it evolved into a political party, social welfare provider, military force and ideological movement deeply rooted in Lebanon's Shia communities. While military action can weaken it, the social and political foundations that sustain Hezbollah are much harder to remove.<h2>Lebanon's demography makes Hezbollah hard to replace</h2>Lebanon is a mosaic of religious and sectarian diversity. Muslims make up about 69 per cent of the population, while Christians account for around 30 per cent. Within the Muslim population, Shias constitute roughly 31-32 per cent, making them one of the country's largest communities and Hezbollah's principal support base. Hezbollah's strongest areas remain southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs.Because Lebanon's political system is built around balancing sectarian interests, removing a movement that represents a substantial portion of one of the country's largest communities is far more complicated than defeating a conventional armed group. Let us explore this further.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-hezbollah-agree-to-ceasefire-starting-friday-after-latest-flare-up-says-report-citing-us-official-1781877376072">Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official</a><h2>Hezbollah's integration into Lebanon's political system</h2>Hezbollah contests elections and holds parliamentary seats through its political arm, the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, led by veteran MP Mohammad Raad. The bloc currently holds 15 seats in Lebanon's 128-member parliament. Hezbollah has also been part of coalition governments and continues to influence national decision-making.This is enabled by Lebanon's unique political system, which is a response to its population realities. Lebanon has a sectarian power-sharing arrangement under the National Pact of 1943 and the Taif Agreement of 1989. Political offices are distributed among religious communities: the President must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament a Shia Muslim. In electoral politics, Lebanon's political system seeks to provide representation to the country's different communities. The 128 parliamentary seats are constitutionally divided 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, and then subdivided among 'confessions' like Maronite Christian, Sunni, Shia, Druze, and Greek Orthodox, with predetermined quotas. Election candidates must belong to the sect of the seat they are running for. This ‘confessional’ system allows Hezbollah to contest and win elections through its political arm.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-impact-will-israel-hezbollah-truce-have-on-us-iran-talks-and-the-global-economy-wion-decodes-1781954323882">What impact will Israel-Hezbollah truce have on US-Iran talks and the global economy? WION Decodes</a><h2>Hezbollah's social role as a community provider is its strength</h2>For its supporters, Hezbollah is not simply an armed group, but a provider of security and essential social services. The organisation provides services that the Lebanese state often struggles to deliver, particularly in Shia-majority areas such as southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. It operates schools, clinics, charities and reconstruction programmes. Financial assistance and welfare networks of Hezbollah have helped build long-term loyalty among its support base.<h2>Hezbollah as a constant "resistance" force against Israel</h2>Hezbollah long portrayed itself as the defender of Lebanese territory, particularly against Israel. Its "resistance" narrative gained prominence during Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000, which began during the 1982 Lebanon War with Israel, and was reinforced by subsequent conflicts, including the 2006 Lebanon War. While many Sunni Muslims, Christians and Druze oppose Hezbollah's military role and its close ties to Iran, significant sections of the Shia community continue to view it as a deterrent against Israel.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed</a><h2>Hezbollah's military strength: A comparison with official defence forces of Lebanon</h2>Constant confrontation with Israel has made Hezbollah a battle-hardened force. It has built fortified positions, underground facilities, tunnel networks and large missile stockpiles over the decades. Its command structure is highly decentralised, as proven by its ability to continue operating despite repeated Israeli decapitation strikes on senior leaders like Hassan Nasrallah. Assessments by the Institute for the Study of War noted that such guerrilla-style capabilities make a decisive military victory difficult. Hezbollah has repeatedly shown an ability to rebuild, regroup and continue fighting after major setbacks.Lebanon's official armed forces, on the other hand, are relatively weak compared with regional militaries. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have a modest army and limited air and naval capabilities, relying largely on light aircraft, helicopters and patrol vessels. Unlike Hezbollah, the Lebanese military lacks a significant missile arsenal, and is mostly focused on internal security and border protection rather than conventional or asymmetric warfare.<h2>Hezbollah may be weakened, but not defeated</h2>The Lebanese state has repeatedly failed to disarm Hezbollah. Successive governments and state institutions generally avoided direct confrontation with the group, fearing sectarian conflict and political fragmentation.As noted by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), lasting disarmament of Hezbollah would require broad Lebanese political consensus and a much stronger state, both of which remain absent. Hezbollah endures because it is embedded not only in military structures, but also in Lebanese society, politics and local institutions. Military pressure from Israel can weaken the organisation, but eliminating it altogether is a far more complex.

Hezbollah survives and fights in Lebanon despite Israeli military operations and decapitation strikes over months. The Iran-backed group remains influential due to its social welfare role and Shia support base. But those are not the only reasons

Lebanon is the key sticking point in the currently ongoing Iran-US peace talks as Tehran insists that Israel must end military operations on all fronts, including that country. Israel has repeatedly targeted the Shia group Hezbollah's alleged strongholds in southern Lebanon, killing dozens, which Lebanese authorities describe as civilians and Israel calls terrorists. Despite killing Hezbollah's long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah and carrying out extensive air and ground operations in southern Lebanon for months, Israel has not been able to eliminate the group, which is backed as a proxy by regional Shia power Iran. Why is it so difficult to defeat Hezbollah? Armed and legitimate: Why Hezbollah survives Hezbollah's strength comes from both the battle effectiveness of its armed wing and its political legitimacy in parts of Lebanon. Contrary to much Western media coverage, Hezbollah is not a rag-tag group of mercenaries or militants. Over the past four decades, it evolved into a political party, social welfare provider, military force and ideological movement deeply rooted in Lebanon's Shia communities. While military action can weaken it, the social and political foundations that sustain Hezbollah are much harder to remove. Lebanon's demography makes Hezbollah hard to replace Lebanon is a mosaic of religious and sectarian diversity. Muslims make up about 69 per cent of the population, while Christians account for around 30 per cent. Within the Muslim population, Shias constitute roughly 31-32 per cent, making them one of the country's largest communities and Hezbollah's principal support base. Hezbollah's strongest areas remain southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. Because Lebanon's political system is built around balancing sectarian interests, removing a movement that represents a substantial portion of one of the country's largest communities is far more complicated than defeating a conventional armed group. Let us explore this further. Also read: Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official Hezbollah's integration into Lebanon's political system Hezbollah contests elections and holds parliamentary seats through its political arm, the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, led by veteran MP Mohammad Raad. The bloc currently holds 15 seats in Lebanon's 128-member parliament. Hezbollah has also been part of coalition governments and continues to influence national decision-making. This is enabled by Lebanon's unique political system, which is a response to its population realities. Lebanon has a sectarian power-sharing arrangement under the National Pact of 1943 and the Taif Agreement of 1989. Political offices are distributed among religious communities: the President must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament a Shia Muslim. In electoral politics, Lebanon's political system seeks to provide representation to the country's different communities. The 128 parliamentary seats are constitutionally divided 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, and then subdivided among 'confessions' like Maronite Christian, Sunni, Shia, Druze, and Greek Orthodox, with predetermined quotas. Election candidates must belong to the sect of the seat they are running for. This ‘confessional’ system allows Hezbollah to contest and win elections through its political arm. Also read: What impact will Israel-Hezbollah truce have on US-Iran talks and the global economy? WION Decodes Hezbollah's social role as a community provider is its strength For its supporters, Hezbollah is not simply an armed group, but a provider of security and essential social services. The organisation provides services that the Lebanese state often struggles to deliver, particularly in Shia-majority areas such as southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. It operates schools, clinics, charities and reconstruction programmes. Financial assistance and welfare networks of Hezbollah have helped build long-term loyalty among its support base. Hezbollah as a constant "resistance" force against Israel Hezbollah long portrayed itself as the defender of Lebanese territory, particularly against Israel. Its "resistance" narrative gained prominence during Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000, which began during the 1982 Lebanon War with Israel, and was reinforced by subsequent conflicts, including the 2006 Lebanon War. While many Sunni Muslims, Christians and Druze oppose Hezbollah's military role and its close ties to Iran, significant sections of the Shia community continue to view it as a deterrent against Israel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed Hezbollah's military strength: A comparison with official defence forces of Lebanon Constant confrontation with Israel has made Hezbollah a battle-hardened force. It has built fortified positions, underground facilities, tunnel networks and large missile stockpiles over the decades. Its command structure is highly decentralised, as proven by its ability to continue operating despite repeated Israeli decapitation strikes on senior leaders like Hassan Nasrallah. Assessments by the Institute for the Study of War noted that such guerrilla-style capabilities make a decisive military victory difficult. Hezbollah has repeatedly shown an ability to rebuild, regroup and continue fighting after major setbacks. Lebanon's official armed forces, on the other hand, are relatively weak compared with regional militaries. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have a modest army and limited air and naval capabilities, relying largely on light aircraft, helicopters and patrol vessels. Unlike Hezbollah, the Lebanese military lacks a significant missile arsenal, and is mostly focused on internal security and border protection rather than conventional or asymmetric warfare. Hezbollah may be weakened, but not defeated The Lebanese state has repeatedly failed to disarm Hezbollah. Successive governments and state institutions generally avoided direct confrontation with the group, fearing sectarian conflict and political fragmentation. As noted by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), lasting disarmament of Hezbollah would require broad Lebanese political consensus and a much stronger state, both of which remain absent. Hezbollah endures because it is embedded not only in military structures, but also in Lebanese society, politics and local institutions. Military pressure from Israel can weaken the organisation, but eliminating it altogether is a far more complex.

Hezbollah survives and fights in Lebanon despite Israeli military operations and decapitation strikes over months. The Iran-backed group remains influential due to its social welfare role and Shia support base. But those are not the only reasons

Why is Hezbollah's defeat not so easy for Israel? Shia group is deeply embedded in Lebanon | The Big Question

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Israel's military pressure could help Hezbollah regain influence

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Group's fibre-optic drones pose new challenge for Israel

Israel moves to dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure

UK, Italy, Switzerland, Indonesia shortlisted to monitor Hezbollah's disarmament

Iran Warns Gulf States | Israel Strikes Lebanon as Hormuz Talks Continue | West Asia Crisis

Iran Warns Gulf States of Retaliation | Israel Launches Fresh Strikes on Lebanon | GRAVITAS

Iran-U.S. War: Trump Losing Credibility as Conflict Drags On, Expert Warns

Israel Kills Hezbollah Fighters Despite Ceasefire | UNESCO Site Damaged In Lebanon

Israel Kills Hezbollah Fighters Despite Ceasefire | UN Sounds Alarm Over Lebanon Strikes

U.S. Running Out of Missiles? Israel-Hezbollah Clash Escalates Amid Iran War

U.S. Running Out of Missiles? Israel-Hezbollah Clash Escalates Amid Iran War

Israel mulls national drone ban after Iran claims to have tripled drone production | Gravitas

Israel mulls national drone ban after Iran claims to have tripled its production

Trump backs Lebanese government, open to Hezbollah talks

US Department of State: We are backing Lebanon's peace efforts

Lebanon arrests Israel spy who betrayed, killed Hezbollah leaders

Hezbollah security breach: Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy linked to top commanders' killings

Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy accused of infiltrating hezbollah &helping target top commanders

Israel-Hezbollah Tensions: Secret Tunnel Used by Hezbollah Discovered by Israeli Military

Israel says October 7 changed everything, Netanyahu defends buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon & Syria

Netanyahu says Israel's security begins beyond its borders

WION in Lebanon: Kafrah deputy mayor says we are only defending our land .

WION in Lebanon: Mass funerals held for Hezbollah fighters