On February 6, Wafiq Safa, a veteran senior commander in Hezbollah, stepped down from his position as head of the organization’s “Liaison and Coordination Unit” (it remains unclear whether he resigned or was dismissed). While some observers view this as a dramatic development signaling a
While Hezbollah’s rhetoric is becoming increasingly radical and loyal to Iran and the “Axis of Resistance,” the organization itself is acting with caution and restraint. Behind the militant declarations stands an actor under growing political pressure in the Lebanese arena, required to navigate between its
Introduction This paper argues that Hezbollah’s decision to join the renewed 2026 war with Israel is neither a simple act of “axis discipline” nor just an automatic extension of its traditional resistance role, but the product of a narrowing strategic corridor shaped by three forces:
Since October 7th, influence warfare has become a central arena in the confrontation between the Axis of Resistance and Israel. Alongside military operations, Iranian proxies have intensified their efforts to manipulate information against Israel and the West. This demonstrates their recognition that the psychological battlespace
Naim Qassem’s recent speech shows Hezbollah’s unsuccessful attempt to shape the narrative of power, to preserve the organization’s former prestige and the enduring legacy of Hassan Nasrallah. On October 26, Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s secretary-general, delivered what can be described as a “speech of justification”. In
Abstract Amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Hezbollah has remained militarily passive, relying on rhetoric and symbolic gestures over direct engagement. This calculated restraint underscores the organization’s strategic vulnerabilities—domestic opposition, operational setbacks, and deep reliance on Iranian support. The central question now is
Abstract This article examines Hezbollah’s coordinated media campaigns on Telegram between November 2024 and May 2025. It reveals how the organization shifted its messaging from declarations of military victory to themes of resilience, national unity, and civil legitimacy. Through analyzing hashtags, visual content, and rhetorical
Abstract This article analyzes the election of Joseph Aoun as President of Lebanon in January 2025, set against the backdrop of the country’s deep political and economic crisis. Aoun’s election, which followed 12 unsuccessful attempts to choose a president, was ultimately secured through a compromise
November 27, 2024 – Morning in Lebanon: Citizens returning to a village in southern Lebanon gathered around a central square to burn an Israeli flag, creating a symbolic image that quickly defined the day and the narrative Hezbollah seeks to project: framing the withdrawal of
Abstract During 2020-2023, the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) at Reichman University conducted comprehensive research examining the challenges of Israel’s multi-front warfare and the implications for Israel’s preparedness in terms of the home front, the frontlines, and various operational arenas. Each chapter of the study
Abstract This paper explores the dynamics of Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, focusing on Hamas’s expanding influence under the sponsorship of Hezbollah. The analysis underscores Hamas’s strategic efforts to consolidate control in these camps as part of its broader objective to challenge Israel from multiple
Published in Hebrew by the Israeli daily Israel Hayom The massacre of 12 Druze children and dozens of wounded in Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights required a powerful response from Israel, following months of a war of attrition waged by Hezbollah against northern Israel,
Expert Insights: Dr. Eitan Azani, Acting Director of the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism Recent events in the Middle East have highlighted that the region resembles a multiplayer game with various local, regional, and international players. This is where the drama unfolds. It is not a
Abstract This paper delves into the increasing criticism among Lebanese Christians regarding Hezbollah’s involvement in the ongoing conflict against Israel, highlighting the mounting discontent not only from Christians but also from Sunnis and Shiites in Lebanon. The criticism underscores the detrimental impact on Lebanon’s stability
The Israeli-Lebanese maritime boundary agreement, sponsored and mediated by the US to resolve the longstanding conflict over the maritime border between the countries and the division of energy reserves, is a significant regional and international multidimensional achievement for the State of Israel. From a broad
Hassan Nasrallah and Hezbollah’s threats on Karish gas drilling rig and prevent the production and export of gas from Israel’s reservoirs if Lebanon’s demands regarding the latter’s marine border with Israel constitute a significant escalation in Hezbollah’s aggressive rhetoric and may lead to another miscalculation
