Hezbollah struggles to find a way forward, while its weapons remain its only compass
As Israel expands its hold over southern Lebanon, Hezbollah is facing an unprecedented crisis. It is fiercely critical of the Lebanese state yet unable to do without it. Caught between military inaction, dependence on Iran and growing internal differences, the group is struggling to find a way forward.
by Nemtala EDDÉ · L'Orient TodayThe unease was palpable. Speaking on Saturday for the first time in weeks, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem pledged to continue pursuing "resistance in all its forms" in order to "liberate Palestine." Yet he did not say a word about southern Lebanon. Not a word about a situation that has become dire, as Israel has expanded its zone of occupation by taking control of the strategic Ali Taher hill, continues to raze entire villages and carries out daily air strikes.Since the start of the war in March, Hezbollah has repeatedly said it rejects any return to the status quo ante, when Israeli forces occupied five positions and carried out occasional attacks. The situation has now moved well beyond that status quo. Yet Hezbollah remains silent and has refrained from claiming responsibility for a single attack. Its...
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