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While the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel is engulfing Lebanon in war, the militant political group claims to be protecting the interests of all Lebanese people. Jabob Russell reports from Beirut how much support the Hezbollah group really has among the Lebanese people.
Once called a "state within a state," Hezbollah has had considerable power and support among the Lebanese Shiite community for decades.
Over the past few days, Israel has significantly escalated its attacks on Shiite areas of Lebanon, claiming that Hezbollah maintains weapons in civilian areas.
These attacks have left hundreds dead and forced the displacement of thousands of civilians, a strategy that could fuel discord and damage relations between Hezbollah and its base.
"The community that supports Hozbollah does not want to be involved in another war, to face displacement, but in fact it is experiencing all of this. Therefore, all these are elements that Hezbollah must take into account when making decisions", says Paul Salem from the Middle East Institute.
In the past, when tensions have risen after Israel has launched attacks, such as in the 2006 war, other sects have joined Hezbollah in resistance.
But in recent years, Hezbollah's ever-growing power in crisis-torn Lebanon has fueled resentment toward the group.
"Israel is considering the possibilities of how to further widen the divisions between the communities in order to increase the hostility towards Hezbollah", says Selim Maouwad, artist and social activist.
Whether the attacks will lead to increased opposition to Hezbollah will depend on the positioning of Lebanese political leaders.
"The support of Hezbollah is temporary. If the political elite or any sect other than the Shia sect decides tomorrow to unconditionally support Hezbollah, then the community will do the same, with the exception of a few," says Mr. Maouwad.
There is no guarantee that the attacks that left Lebanese civilians dead and forced residents to flee their homes will ultimately weaken Hezbollah.
"The fact that they were attacked by Israel is leading to their fear and despair, but it's also fueling their anger and determination not to accept that. So, in practical terms, what's happening is not going to change Hezbollah's stance, but it can affect the group's calculations, as it is," says Paul Salem of the Middle East Institute.
Attacking civilian areas is a dangerous strategy. Analysts say the outcome will depend not only on how far Israel can push its attack, but also on Lebanon's unpredictable domestic politics. VOA
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