The escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah have brought the differences and similarities between Hezbollah and Hamas, two Iranian-backed terrorist organizations, into focus. The Islamic Republic of Iran provides substantial funding to both groups, which have declared war on Israel and been responsible for attacks against American civilians and military personnel. Hezbollah, with its powerful military capabilities and arsenal of 150,000 rockets and missiles, is considered the crown jewel in Iran’s network of terror. In comparison, Hamas, situated in the Gaza Strip, has a smaller arsenal of 20,000 rockets and missiles, but remains a constant threat.
Despite funding from Iran, there are significant differences in the capabilities and operations of Hamas and Hezbollah. Hezbollah, with 20,000 to 25,000 fighters, has more advanced weaponry and training. On the other hand, Hamas has between 9,000 and 12,000 combatants and faces difficulties in receiving goods and arms due to a sea blockade. Ideologically, Hamas is a Sunni extremist group with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, while Hezbollah is a Shiite group with roots in Lebanese Shia Islamists recruited and funded by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.
The ultimate goal of Hamas is to establish an Islamic emirate in Palestine and potentially join a Pan-Islamist Caliphate, while Hezbollah aims to establish a Khomeinist republic in Lebanon. Both share a desire to destroy Israel and oppose Arab regimes that impede their goals. The Iranian regime plays a crucial role in funding and supporting both groups, contributing to the destabilization of the Middle East region. Iran provides substantial financial support to both Hamas and Hezbollah, with Qatar also assisting Hamas through hosting their political leader.
The relationship between Hamas and Hezbollah dates back to the mid-1990s when Hamas fighters were trained in Iran as part of Iran’s support for the group. The collaboration between the Sunni Hamas and Shiite Hezbollah, despite religious differences, highlights their shared goal of confronting Israel and their willingness to work together. Strategically, Hezbollah benefits from Israel’s military achievements but also faces diplomatic challenges, leading to ongoing tensions between the groups.
With the U.S. sanctioning both Hezbollah and Hamas as foreign terrorist organizations, and the EU taking a similar stance by sanctioning Hezbollah’s military wing, there is an international recognition of the threat posed by these groups. Despite efforts to address the situation diplomatically, the risk of a full-blown conflict between Israel and Hezbollah remains a concern. The need for urgent action to de-escalate tensions and safeguard civilian lives is crucial, as the ongoing conflict threatens regional stability and security.
