What is Hezbollah and how is it connected to Hassan Nasrallah? Understanding its origins and influence

Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel on Sunday, retaliating for the assassination of their senior commander, Fuad Shukr in Beirut last month.

The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, ongoing since October 7, intensified after a missile strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Although Hezbollah denied involvement in that attack, Israel responded with airstrikes that killed Fuad Shukr. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was also killed but Israel has not taken responsibility for theattack yet.

Hezbollah has signalled that its recent missile and drone strikes are just the "initial response" to these events, hinting at the potential for further escalation.

Understanding Hezbollah: Origins and influence

Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist militant group based in Lebanon, was founded in 1982 by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards during Lebanon’s civil war.

Over the years, Hezbollah has grown from a shadowy militant faction into a powerful political and military force, exerting significant influence within Lebanon and across the Middle East.

However, its ties to Iran and its involvement in regional conflicts have led to its designation as a terrorist organization by Western governments, including the United States, and by Sunni Muslim Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia.

Who is Hassan Nasrallah?

Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah has been the leader of Hezbollah since 1992.Under his leadership, Hezbollah has transformed from a relatively small militant group into a powerful political and military force in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Nasrallah is widely regarded as a central figure in the group's rise to prominence and its ongoing influence in regional affairs.

Born in 1960 in Beirut, Nasrallah became involved in political and militant activities at a young age. He joined Hezbollah shortly after its formation and quickly rose through the ranks due to his charisma, strategic thinking, and close ties with Iran, particularly with its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Nasrallah's leadership has been marked by his ability to maintain and strengthen Hezbollah's alliance with Iran, ensuring a steady flow of financial and military support.

Nasrallah remains a highly influential figure within Hezbollah, frequently addressing the group’s supporters through televised speeches. His leadership has been central to Hezbollah’s rise as a significant force in Middle Eastern geopolitics.

(With inputs from agencies)