Hezbollah–Syria relations

Hezbollah–Syria relations have been a crucial aspect of Middle Eastern geopolitics, particularly since the onset of the Syrian Civil War. These relations are deeply intertwined with the broader regional power dynamics, involving Iran and its quest to maintain influence in the Levant through its allies. Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon, has established itself as a significant force in the region with both military and political power.

The Axis of Resistance
The Axis of Resistance refers to an alliance led by Iran, which includes state and non-state actors that aim to counter Western influence in the Middle East, particularly that of the United States and Israel. Core members of this alliance are the Assad regime in Syria and Lebanese Hezbollah. Iran has also extended its influence to Iraqi Shia militants. Central to the alliance is mutual support, including financial, logistical, and military assistance, with Syria serving as a vital conduit for Iranian aid to Hezbollah.

Iran's financial support to Hezbollah amounts to an estimated $200 million annually. After the 2006 conflict with Israel, both Iran and Syria played pivotal roles in rearming Hezbollah with more sophisticated weapons. The war in Syria has threatened this strategic alliance by endangering one of its primary members, making it a significant concern for Iran and Hezbollah. The preservation of the Axis of Resistance is not only strategic but also ideological, as it encompasses Iran's aim of exporting its Islamic revolutionary ideals.

Early operations: 2011-2012
Initially, Hezbollah's activities in Syria were limited and clandestine. The group's operations were designed to support the Assad regime without drawing significant international attention. During this period, Hezbollah's involvement was mainly in an advisory and logistical capacity, providing strategic planning and training to Syrian government forces.

Escalation and public acknowledgment: 2013 onwards
The year 2013 marked a turning point as Hezbollah publicly acknowledged its presence in Syria and increased its commitment on the ground. Hezbollah fighters, alongside Syrian and Iraqi forces, engaged in significant operations to regain control of rebel-held territories. This active participation enabled the Assad regime to reclaim areas and improve its military effectiveness.

The presence of Hezbollah in Syria has had profound implications on the battlefield, shifting momentum in favor of pro-regime forces. It has also exacerbated sectarian tensions within Lebanon and contributed to regional instability.

Size, scope, and structure
The scale of Hezbollah's involvement in Syria is substantial, with a well-organized structure that has integrated seamlessly with Syrian and Iranian forces. The group's operations have spanned across Syria, indicating a strategic approach to their military engagement. Hezbollah's commitment of resources and fighters indicates the high level of importance placed on the survival of the Assad regime and the maintenance of the Axis of Resistance.

Impact on Lebanon
Hezbollah's deepened involvement in Syria has heightened sectarian tensions within Lebanon, compromising its internal security and political stability. The group's actions in Syria have also invited criticism from various factions within Lebanon, who see Hezbollah's priorities aligned more with Iranian interests than with those of the Lebanese state.

Regional consequences
Hezbollah's role in Syria has had significant ramifications for regional security. The group's military prowess and strategic operations in Syria have reinforced its status as a formidable force, one that operates beyond the borders of Lebanon. Hezbollah's involvement has also underscored the complexities of proxy warfare in the Middle East, with various regional and international actors vying for influence.