Hezbollah and Hamas, two Mideast terrorist organizations, are funded by Iran and have declared war on Israel, perpetrating attacks against American civilians and military personnel. Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, is considered the crown jewel of Iran’s proxy groups, with significant firepower and military capabilities. Iran provides Hezbollah with over $700 million annually, enabling them to amass an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel. In contrast, Hamas, located in Gaza, has a smaller arsenal but remains a threat with 20,000 rockets and missiles.
The differences between Hezbollah and Hamas are evident in their organizational backgrounds and ideological motivations. Hamas, a Sunni extremist group stemming from the Muslim Brotherhood, seeks to establish a Taliban-like state in Palestine and join a regional Caliphate. On the other hand, Hezbollah, a Shia extremist group, shares Iran’s Khomeinist ideology and aims to create a Shia Caliphate across the Middle East, starting with Lebanon. Despite these differences, both groups are united in their desire to destroy Israel and destabilize the region.
The economic support and military training provided by Iran play a crucial role in sustaining Hezbollah and Hamas. Iran has long been a key ally of both organizations, funding and arming them to further its own interests in the region. Joint military cooperation between Iran and Hezbollah has been ongoing, with Hezbollah benefitting from advanced training and weaponry. In comparison, Hamas faces limitations due to a blockade that restricts their ability to receive goods and arms easily.
The intense relations between Hamas and Hezbollah date back to the mid-1990s when Hamas fighters were exiled to Lebanon and received support from Hezbollah and Iran. This collaboration continued over the years, despite the Sunni-Shia divide, with Hamas even supporting Assad’s regime in Syria against Sunni factions. Hezbollah currently maintains a strategic advantage over Israel, benefiting from attrition in Israeli capabilities and a challenging diplomatic situation. While Israel has made military achievements, a diplomatic solution remains elusive.
Both Hamas and Hezbollah have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the U.S., with the EU also sanctioning Hamas in 2003. However, the EU has only sanctioned Hezbollah’s military wing, a distinction that has drawn criticism. As tensions escalate in the region, the threat posed by Hezbollah and Hamas continues to grow, fueled by Iranian support and a shared goal of destabilizing the Middle East. The international community’s response to these organizations will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of the region.
