Despite the significant disparity in military capabilities compared to Israel, Hezbollah has established itself as a formidable non-state armed group. The Lebanese militia possesses a range of missiles capable of targeting various locations within Israeli territory, provided they can bypass Israel’s advanced anti-aircraft systems.
Israel boasts one of the most sophisticated military forces globally, equipped with nuclear capabilities and a large active-duty military. With a population of nearly 10 million, Israel maintains around 170,000 active soldiers and has the ability to mobilize approximately 465,000 reservists during times of conflict. In comparison, Spain, with a population of around 49 million, had fewer than 117,000 regular troops as of 2022. Although Hezbollah’s military capabilities fall short of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), experts recognize it as the best-armed non-state actor worldwide, primarily due to support from Iran and Syria. The group reportedly stockpiles medium- and long-range missiles capable of striking vital Israeli infrastructure, assuming they evade interception by the Iron Dome. Recently, Hezbollah launched a ballistic missile targeting the Mossad headquarters near Tel Aviv, although it was successfully intercepted.
Fighter Strength and Strategy
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah claims an increased force of 100,000 fighters, a figure significantly reduced by Western intelligence estimates to approximately 30,000 active personnel and 20,000 reserves, according to the bipartisan U.S. think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The militia primarily consists of light infantry trained for stealth and mobility, drawing on extensive experience in guerrilla warfare and urban combat. During the 2006 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, for instance, Hezbollah’s rocket units effectively deployed their equipment and dispersed within 28 seconds.
Moreover, Hezbollah’s combat experience gained while supporting Bashar al-Assad in Syria has enhanced its capabilities, allowing it to adopt tactics utilized by conventional military forces. Analysts note that the militia’s motivation stems from its desire to defend its territory against external aggression. Despite its significant military resources, Hezbollah has faced losses in the ongoing conflict with Israel, reporting the deaths of commanders and hundreds of combatants since October 2023. Recent reports indicated that around 1,500 fighters were injured due to detonations from more than 5,000 pagers and walkie-talkies. Nevertheless, CSIS emphasizes that Hezbollah remains a “formidable enemy” in the event of a total war.
Arsenal Overview: Rockets, Missiles, and Tanks
Hezbollah is estimated to possess between 120,000 and 200,000 rockets and missiles, primarily comprising small, unguided surface-to-surface artillery rockets like the Katyusha, which were extensively used during the 2006 conflict and supplied mainly by Iran. The group has significantly expanded its access to long-range missiles with ranges up to 500 kilometers (310 miles), capable of threatening many parts of Israel. While only a few hundred of these missiles are guided, their precision allows Hezbollah to target high-value assets and critical infrastructure across Israel.
Additionally, Hezbollah has acquired Russian-made tanks, such as T-72s, through its involvement in the Syrian conflict, though it remains uncertain whether its fighters are adequately trained to operate or maintain them. These tanks could prove vulnerable to Israel’s advanced aerial capabilities, including state-of-the-art fighter jets and drones.
Drone Capabilities
Iran, as Hezbollah’s primary arms supplier, has significantly contributed to the militia’s drone arsenal, providing unmanned aircraft models such as the Ayoub (Shahed-129), Mirsad 1 and 2, and Karrar. The militia also utilizes commercial quadcopters alongside surveillance and attack drones, enhancing its operational effectiveness on the battlefield.
In conclusion, while Hezbollah may not match the military might of the Israeli Defense Forces, its extensive armament, tactical experience, and strong motivation position it as a potent force in the region. As tensions continue to rise, the implications of Hezbollah’s capabilities will remain a critical consideration for both regional and global security dynamics.
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