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Hezbollah, a Shiite Muslim militant and political movement based in Lebanon, is a significant force in the Middle East. The organization's roots lie in the aftermath of the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, when a group of Lebanese Shiite Muslims formed a resistance movement against the Israeli occupation. Over the years, Hezbollah has evolved into a multifaceted organization with a powerful military wing, a significant political presence in Lebanon, and a network of supporters across the region.
Hezbollah's military wing is widely considered one of the most potent in the Middle East. It possesses a vast arsenal of missiles and rockets, estimated to be over 200,000, along with attack drones. Its military strength is independent of the Lebanese army and significantly surpasses it. Hezbollah's military capabilities are largely attributed to its close ties with Iran, which provides funding, training, and advanced weaponry to the organization. This reliance on Iran has made Hezbollah a key player in Iranian regional strategy, particularly in its efforts to counter Israeli influence and support its allies in the region.
Hezbollah's political influence is also substantial. The movement has a strong presence in Lebanese politics, holding a significant number of seats in the Lebanese Parliament. It plays a crucial role in Lebanese government formation and policy decisions. However, Hezbollah's political participation has also been a source of controversy, particularly its close relationship with Iran and its refusal to disarm its military wing, which is viewed by many as a threat to Lebanese sovereignty. This has led to tensions within Lebanon and with the international community.
Source: Explosion hits Beirut suburb as Israel says it carries out strike