Additional Coverage:
Hezbollah Faces Decline Amid Syria’s Instability
Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group allied with former Syrian President Bashar Assad, has been severely weakened by the war in Syria and Assad’s ouster.
Syria’s once-strong ties to Iran provided Hezbollah with a vital arms supply route. However, with Assad gone, this lifeline has been cut, leaving Hezbollah vulnerable.
Syria’s Role in Hezbollah’s Rise
The Assad dynasty empowered Hezbollah since its inception in the 1980s, providing it with weapons, training, and a manufacturing base. In return, Hezbollah supported Assad in times of crisis.
Hezbollah’s Disarray in Syria
As the Syrian insurgency gained momentum, Hezbollah found itself ill-prepared to defend Assad. Israeli airstrikes and months of bombardment had decimated its military infrastructure and leadership. Without Russia or Iran’s support, Hezbollah withdrew from Syria, leaving Assad to fall quickly.
Lebanon’s Response
In Lebanon, Hezbollah’s weakness has given the Lebanese army an opportunity to reassert control, particularly along the southern border. Calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament have intensified, as many Lebanese resent the group’s involvement in the war with Israel.
Political Challenges for Hezbollah
Hezbollah’s sway in Lebanese politics is also facing challenges. Critics accuse it of violating its pledge to use its weapons only for defense by firing rockets into Israel. Additionally, some allies in parliament are distancing themselves from the group.
Iran’s Loss of Influence
Assad’s fall has disrupted Iran’s supply route to Hezbollah. This has limited the group’s ability to obtain weapons and narrowed its ambitions.
Israel’s Perspective
Israel has long sought to weaken Iran’s regional network. Assad’s fall is seen as a victory in this effort. However, Israel remains cautious of extremist groups among the insurgents who toppled Assad.