The Impact of Israeli Attacks on Beirut and Hezbollah’s Role

Lebanon has been a country in flux, with Beirut once being a vibrant city that has now seen significant changes due to ongoing conflicts. The recent attacks by Israel have intensified tensions, particularly within Beirut, leading to a complex mix of emotions among the population. This article delves into how Lebanese people in Beirut feel about their city being under attack, the role of Hezbollah in the conflict, and the historical context of these events.

Public Sentiment in Beirut

Before the current conflict, Beirut was a thriving metropolis known for its cultural vibrancy and economic prosperity. However, the recent Israeli airstrikes have caused significant damage to the city’s infrastructure and resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children. The Lebanese people are reeling from both the physical and emotional toll of these bombings.

Despite the destruction and grief, there is also a deep anger towards Hezbollah, the group responsible for launching the attacks on Israel. Many Lebanese citizens feel powerless against Hezbollah, which has become a powerful political force within Lebanon. This political entity acts outside the direct control of the government, thus amplifying the anger towards a party with significant influence over daily life in Lebanon.

Historical Context and Recurring Conflicts

The current conflict is not the first time Israel has intervened militarily in Lebanon. Since the 1949 Arab-Israeli conflict, Lebanon has played a predominantly defensive role, meaning it hasn’t initiated any state-level attacks against Israel. However, Hezbollah, a powerful Lebanese political party with its own military, has carried out multiple attacks against Israel.

In "The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy," a comedic and satirical series, a missile is turned into a pot of petunias that repeatedly meets destruction. This analogy aptly reflects the recurrent nature of conflicts between Israel and Lebanon. It has been both Israel and Hezbollah that have brought about these destructive events.

Historical Military Engagements and Their Impact

Since 1978, Israel has launched multiple military operations in Lebanon. These include the 1978 Security Zone incursion, which was followed by the 1982 invasion and the subsequent Israeli occupation of Southern Lebanon until 2000. In 2006, Israel engaged in a significant war with Hezbollah, resulting in over a month of combat and extensive loss of life.

The Israeli invasion of 1982 was particularly notable for an incident where an Israeli Defence Force (IDF) Colonel refused to comply with a direct order to send troops into Beirut. This decision likely prevented the conflict from escalating further. Despite this, the ongoing operations have had profound impacts on the Lebanese and Israeli populations, perpetuating a cycle of violence and instability.

In conclusion, the current conflict highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics between Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah. While the Lebanese people in Beirut feel the immediate and devastating impacts of the Israeli attacks, they also express frustration and powerlessness towards Hezbollah's role in perpetuating this conflict. Understanding the historical context is crucial for comprehending the deep-seated issues and the ongoing tensions.