Lebanon-Israel Conflict Continues 26 Years After 2000 Withdrawal

Israel withdrew from south Lebanon 26 years ago this week after an 18-year occupation. The withdrawal did not resolve the underlying dispute centered on Palestinian rights, which continues to shape relations between Lebanon and Israel.

Iran began supporting Hezbollah after 1982, turning Lebanon into a front between Iran and Israel. The United States has since joined Israel in military operations, expanding the conflict beyond its original borders. Advanced missile, drone, and radar systems have altered the military balance.

Hezbollah has adapted into a smaller force after sustaining losses, while Israel has applied urban destruction tactics first used in Beirut in 2006 and later in Gaza.

Lebanon’s government faces competing demands.

The United States has pressed President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to disarm Hezbollah, while China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Pakistan, and Russia have urged an end to the fighting. 2 million, and damaged dozens of villages. The Lebanese government has cited these attacks when justifying talks with Israel aimed at halting the strikes and restoring state control over its territory.

-Iran agreement. Both sides have used the truces to press for new diplomatic terms.