In a possible full-scale war between Hezbollah and Israel, thousands of fighters from Iran-backed groups in the Middle East stand ready to bolster Hezbollah’s forces in Lebanon. The escalating conflict raises concerns of severe consequences for the region and its stability.
Thousands of fighters from Iran-backed groups in the Middle East are poised to join Hezbollah in Lebanon if the conflict with Israel escalates into a full-scale war, according to officials from these factions and analysts. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah stated in a speech that while fighters from multiple countries have offered support, the group currently has over 100,000 fighters and is only using a portion of its manpower in the ongoing battles.
The groups aligned with Hezbollah—coming from Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen—are ready to reinforce Hezbollah if necessary. Fighters from these areas are already present in Syria and could easily cross into Lebanon through the porous border. Some have already launched attacks on Israel, asserting their strategy against Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza.
On the Israeli side of the border, residents like David Kamari of Kiryat Shmona face daily rocket attacks and hope for a resolution through military action against Hezbollah. The Israeli government has responded with airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon and targeted senior commanders.
Despite mutual threats between Israel and Hezbollah, a full-scale war would be devastating for both sides. The ongoing conflict and daily exchanges of fire have forced evacuations on both sides of the border, with significant impacts on civilian life.
The drone warfare capability of Hezbollah, bolstered by Iranian technology, has raised concerns. Hezbollah’s recent use of surveillance drones over Israeli territory demonstrated its evolving tactics and capabilities, further intensifying the strategic stakes.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has labeled the potential for an all-out conflict as catastrophic, emphasizing the human and geopolitical implications of such an escalation. The prolonged and intensifying conflict continues to pose significant risks for broader regional stability.