Lebanon has become a battlefield, both figuratively and literally, with its citizens facing death, displacement, and a nation on the brink of complete collapse. But while some point their fingers at Israel - rightfully so - they seem to forget, or simply ignore, the role of Hezbollah and its responsibility in the killing of many. Until the Lebanese people hold the ‘Party of God’ accountable, true change will remain a distant dream
Lebanon has been hijacked by Hezbollah for decades now. Their presence, influence, and dominance over Lebanon’s military, political, and economic systems have crippled the nation. Hezbollah portrays itself as a resistance movement, defending Lebanon from Israeli aggression. However, the reality is far more sinister. By using Lebanon and serving the interests of the Islamic Republic in Iran, Hezbollah has transformed the country into a proxy battlefield, with devastating consequences for its people – as of the latest more than 1200 lives lost and half a million displaced, with communities decimated and families torn apart. They answer to no one but Iran – who has denied extending its “helping” hand – disregarding the destruction and loss of life that follows their answer to the beating of Iranian war drums. Every home destroyed, every civilian injured, and every life lost is a direct consequence of Hezbollah’s reckless actions.
On the other hand, Lebanon’s political landscape is fragile, plagued by corruption and sectarianism. But it is hugely Hezbollah’s dominance that has paralyzed the country’s ability to govern itself. The power vacuum in Lebanon has given Hezbollah the freedom to dictate national policies, including those related to war and peace. Did the caretaker Council of Ministers decide to launch the first missile on October 8 of last year and deal with the destruction that followed it? Or was it the non-existent commander in chief of the armed forces – the President of the Republic? The Lebanese government, weak and divided, is in no position to challenge Hezbollah’s authority, leaving the country at the mercy of a militant group that operates above the law. This paralysis has left the Lebanese people in a state of helplessness. The healthcare system is collapsing, the economy is in freefall, and basic services are deteriorating at this time of war. Meanwhile, Hezbollah siphons off resources for its military operations and continues its campaign of violence whether at home or abroad. The Lebanese people are paying the price for Hezbollah’s ambitions, but many still fear speaking out against the group, knowing full well and having witnessed the consequences for so long.
The Lebanese people must recognize that their enemy number one is Hezbollah who has deceived them in many ways for so long, has violated every principle of state sovereignty, and embedded military-grade weapons and tunnel systems within and beneath civilian areas. Israel’s actions are undeniably destructive. Holding Israel accountable is crucial, but it is secondary to the need for Lebanese citizens to hold Hezbollah accountable for its role in bringing the country to ruin and to demand its disarmament. This is not an impossible task. Throughout history, civil societies have risen against oppressive forces and have succeeded in doing so peacefully. The Lebanese people have already demonstrated their willingness for change, as seen during the protests of 2019. But they must go further, while always adhering to nonviolent principles. The fear that Hezbollah instills, through assassinations and intimidation, can no longer be allowed to silence the silent majority.
Political philosopher John Locke’s theory of the social contract teaches us that the state’s primary role is to protect the rights of its citizens, and when a state fails to do so, the people have the right to alter or abolish it. Hezbollah has made Lebanon a failed state by hijacking its government and undermining the very foundations of civil society. The events of 2008 and Tayyouneh in 2021 are only one of the many examples of this. Thus, it is not only the right but the duty of the Lebanese people to rise and demand Hezbollah’s removal from power. If not, foreign powers or next-door neighbors will attempt to do so in the manner they see fit for themselves, and not you. For Lebanon to have any chance of survival, Hezbollah must be disarmed, and its influence over the country must be dismantled, now more than ever. The Lebanese people must mobilize and stand up to Hezbollah’s tyranny. And it is not too early nor too late to do so. The alternative is a present and future of continued war, displacement, and suffering, the root cause of which is Hezbollah.
It is time, long overdue, for the Lebanese people to rise and reclaim their country. Only then can they begin to hold others accountable for the chaos that has engulfed their country. Only then will Lebanon have a chance at much-deserved peace.
Edward Tashjian is a political activist and commentator.
The views in this story reflect those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs of NOW.
