Considered a terrorist organization, but it’s a political party too. Similar to Hamas
Considered by terrorists by most people, including most of the Arab League (excluding Iran, Syria, Iraq (double-check))
“August 2008, Lebanon’s new cabinet unanimously approved a draft policy statement that recognizes Hezbollah’s existence as an armed organization and guarantees its right to ‘liberate or recover occupied lands’
15/128 seats in parliament, but their political alliance (March 8 Alliance) holds 70/128 seats
Paramilitary wing is more powerful than the Lebanese army
Receive military training, weapons and financial support from Iran, and political support from Syria
History
Originated in 1982 to fight the Israeli invasion of Lebanon
Funded by Iran from the beginning
2006 Lebanon War
Also known as the ‘Second Lebanon War’ in Israel
Hezbollah paramilitary forces versus the IDF
Precipitated by a Hezbollah cross-border raid, where Hezbollah shot rockets into Israel
“Unprecedented Iranian military support to Hezbollah”
Ended by UN-brokered ceasefire
Formally ended on September 8th when Israel lifted the naval blockade on Lebanon