Hezbollah-Israel Conflict Overview

Hezbollah-Israel Conflict

• Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging fire across the border since the Gaza war began (October 2023). Al Jazeera reported this escalated to a "war" status.
• Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, and other commanders, were reportedly killed in an Israeli air strike on Beirut on September 27, 2023.
• Israel claimed the attacks targeted Hezbollah headquarters and other sites in the Bekaa Valley, southern Lebanon, and along the border. Attacks continued on Saturday.
• A significant escalation occurred on September 17, 2023, when 2,800 people in Lebanon were injured by exploding pager devices. Hezbollah blamed Israel for this attack.
• The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has lasted nearly a year, beginning in October 2022. Hezbollah initiated attacks to deter Israel from its war on Gaza (where 41,500 deaths were reported).
• Israel has a history of responding to Hezbollah attacks, escalating and de-escalating the conflict over time. Hezbollah is a well-equipped and seasoned nongovernmental fighter group.
• This conflict stems from nearly five decades of tension between the two sides.

Historical Context of the Conflict

• 1982 Invasion: Israel invaded Lebanon in June 1982, leading to the formation of Hezbollah. Its stated goal was to repel Israeli forces.
• Hezbollah was formed by Muslim leaders, and many believe Iran provided support, aiming to fight against Israel's presence in Lebanon.
• Hezbollah's influence grew rapidly, drawing support from young people and residents of marginalized areas with significant Shia populations in the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs.
• 1983 Attacks and Peacekeepers: Attacks targeted foreign military presences, including the bombing of barracks in Beirut in 1983 which killed 300+ French & US peacekeeping forces. Islamic Jihad, believed to be a front for Hezbollah, claimed responsibility.
• 1985 Withdrawal: Hezbollah and allied groups pushed the Israeli army back across the Litani River, effectively forcing Israel into a "security zone".
• 1992 Political Presence: Hezbollah entered Lebanese politics and won eight seats in parliament. Its presence in parliament has grown to 62 seats. Hezbollah also provides social programs to strengthen its influence in areas of heavy presence.
• 1993 Seven-Day War: Conflict triggered by Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel after Israeli attacks on Lebanon. This conflict resulted in 118 Lebanese civilian casualties and significant property damage.
• 1996 April Aggression/Operation Grapes of Wrath: Israel launched a 17-day offensive intended to push Hezbollah out of striking range.

This quiz explores the escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, highlighting key events since October 2022. Important incidents such as attacks, airstrikes, and the regional impact of the conflict will be covered. Test your knowledge on the timeline and major players involved in this ongoing situation.