Hezbollah: Origins, Influence, and Controversies

Hezbollah, a Shi'ite Islamist group founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982, has evolved into a powerful armed force with significant influence in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Accused of various attacks, the group is designated a terrorist organization by Western and Gulf Arab nations. Hezbollah denies recent allegations involving rocket strikes in Israel.

Hezbollah, rooted in Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, emerged in 1982 during Lebanon's civil war. Initially formed to combat Israeli forces, it has grown into a formidable military power, retaining its arsenal even after the war. The group's influence spans across the Middle East, aligning with Iranian interests and supporting other militant groups.

Hezbollah's involvement in the ongoing Gaza conflict, marked by daily exchanges of fire with Israeli forces, underscores its significant military capabilities. Its arsenal includes precision missiles and drones, capable of reaching deep into Israeli territory. Despite its military prowess, Hezbollah faces allegations of attacks, which it vehemently denies.

The group's role within Lebanon is contentious. While supported by many Lebanese Shi'ites for defending against Israeli aggression, critics argue that Hezbollah's actions undermine the state's sovereignty and drag Lebanon into external conflicts. Its political power has fluctuated over the years, yet it continues to wield considerable influence in the Lebanese government.

(With inputs from agencies.)