2006 Lebanon War: Nasrallah’s Leadership Under Fire
While the Israeli withdrawal was a high point for Nasrallah’s leadership, the 2006 Lebanon War tested his abilities as both a military commander and a political leader. The conflict began after Hezbollah ambushed an Israeli border patrol unit, killing and capturing several Israeli soldiers. Israel responded with a large-scale military invasion of southern Lebanon, leading to a 34-day war.
Hezbollah’s military performance during the war surprised many observers. Despite being outgunned by the Israeli military, Hezbollah was able to inflict significant damage on Israeli forces, launch rocket attacks into northern Israel, and demonstrate its capacity to wage a prolonged and asymmetric war. Nasrallah’s leadership during the war elevated his status as a leader who could stand up to Israel.
However, the war also had significant consequences for Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes caused widespread destruction in Beirut and southern Lebanon, and thousands of civilians were killed or displaced. While Nasrallah declared a “divine victory” at the end of the war, critics both inside and outside of Lebanon questioned the wisdom of Hezbollah’s actions, arguing that the conflict had caused unnecessary suffering and destruction.