The political landscape in Lebanon has been characterized by a rare alignment of interests, transcending the historical Sunni-Shiite divide. With the recent alliance between the Sunni militant group, al-Jamaa al-Islamiya (the Islamic Group), and the Shiite Hezbollah, this unity underscores a growing cooperation against a common perceived adversary: Israel.
The Secretary-General of al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, Sheikh Mohammed Takkoush, declared the coalition with Hezbollah as “a national, religious and moral duty.” Driven by what they view as aggression from Israel, both in the Gaza Strip and along the Lebanon-Israel border, this partnership has fortified. Takkoush pointedly underscored the alliance by stating, “We decided to join (the battle)… to defend our land and villages… We also did so in support of our brothers in Gaza,” where he accused Israel of committing an “open massacre.”
The Islamic Group, a Sunni faction, has historically maintained a low political profile in Lebanon, yet the recent conflicts have drawn them closer to Hamas, sharing ideological roots with the Muslim Brotherhood. Their unity is shown in their coordination with Hezbollah, which is described by Takkoush as “on the rise and this is being reflected in the field.” Despite the complexities of inter-sect relations, the alignment of these groups against Israel is a significant development.
Hezbollah, however, has a more expansive and deep-rooted history of conflict with Israel. Since its emergence in the 1980s, bolstered by Iranian support, it has grown into a formidable military and political power. Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has been vocally against the existence of Israel, and the group’s allegiance to Iran remains strong. This has been exemplified by its enduring military campaigns and political maneuvers, often aiming to destabilize Israel’s security and sovereignty.
The groups’ alignment against Israel comes at a time when Hezbollah is increasingly criticized domestically within Lebanon for its vast military arsenal and the role it plays in the nation’s politics. It operates with an autonomy that raises questions about its compatibility with the state’s governance and responsibility, often described as a “state within a state.” This has been evident in Hezbollah’s evolution into a key political force and its ability to direct resources while avoiding accountability for government actions.
While Hezbollah and al-Jamaa al-Islamiya’s unification is primarily against Israel, it also reveals the strategic realignments within Lebanon’s political and sectarian landscapes. Lebanon continues to grapple with political instability, and this new coalition may further challenge the status quo. The Lebanese Sunni community, notably after the withdrawal of former Prime Minister Saad Hariri from politics, looks to groups like al-Jamaa al-Islamiya for leadership, although Takkoush disclaims any intention to replace Hariri, stating, “We introduce ourselves as partners in building generations and (state) institutions but we do not replace anyone.”
Relevant articles:
– Lebanese Sunni militant group head says coordination with Shiite Hezbollah is vital to fight Israel
– Hezbollah’s Record on War & Politics, Wilson Center, Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT
– From Houthis to Hezbollah, a look at the Iran-allied groups rallying to arms around Middle East, The Associated Press, Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT
– Hamas and Hezbollah: how they are different and why they might cooperate against Israel, The Conversation Indonesia, Tue, 17 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT