The cross-border conflict between Hezbollah and Israeli forces has once again heated up, raising concerns that the clashes could escalate into a full-scale war. The recent exchange of strikes between the two sides has left casualties on both ends and heightened tensions in the region. In order to understand the current situation, it is necessary to examine the military capabilities of both Hezbollah and Israel.
Hezbollah, backed by Iran, is considered the most significant paramilitary force in the Arab world, with extensive internal structure and a sizable arsenal. Its fighters gained valuable experience during Syria's 13-year conflict, where they played a crucial role in tipping the balance in favor of government forces. While Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, claims to have 100,000 fighters, other estimates suggest a lower troop strength. Israel demands the withdrawal of the group's elite Radwan Force from the border to enable the return of tens of thousands of displaced Israelis to their homes.
Hezbollah possesses a vast array of mostly small, portable, and unguided surface-to-surface artillery rockets, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The group, along with other militant organizations in Lebanon, is estimated to possess around 150,000 missiles and rockets. Hezbollah has also been working on developing precision-guided missiles. In addition to these rockets, Hezbollah's forces are equipped with assault rifles, heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, roadside bombs, and other weaponry. Recent reports indicate the introduction of new weapons, including a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 10 kilometers (6 miles) and a warhead weighing 50 kilograms (110 pounds).
Israel, one of the best-armed nations in the Middle East, receives significant military support from the United States. Its air force boasts advanced American F-35 fighter jets, as well as missile defense systems such as the Patriot, Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling. Israel also possesses armored personnel carriers, tanks, and a range of drones and other technological advancements to support ground battles. With an estimated 170,000 troops typically on active duty, Israel has called up approximately 360,000 reservists for the ongoing conflict.
While most analysts believe that neither Hezbollah nor Israel desires a full-scale war, there are concerns that a miscalculation from either side could trigger a major escalation. In recent weeks, the United States, France, and other countries have taken steps to defuse tensions by sending diplomats to the region. However, the situation remains precarious, with the recent exchange of strikes indicating the potential for violence to spiral out of control.
This is not the first time Hezbollah and Israel have clashed. The two sides engaged in a 34-day war in 2006, which ended in a draw. The current escalation has revived memories of that conflict and stirred fears of a similar outcome. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging both sides to exercise restraint to prevent further loss of life and damage.
As the conflict continues, it remains crucial for diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution and establish a lasting ceasefire. The people in the region, already burdened by the consequences of ongoing conflicts, deserve a respite from violence and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
