Lebanon, once known as the “Switzerland of the Middle East,” is a country with a rich history and a promising beginning. However, in recent decades, it has found itself entangled in conflicts that have stripped it of its neutrality and prosperity. Eli Khoury, a prominent Lebanese political activist and media figure, sheds light on Lebanon’s ongoing struggle for sovereignty. According to Khoury, Lebanon’s conflicts are not purely domestic but driven by foreign influence, particularly through the involvement of Hezbollah, Iran, and Syria.
Table of contentsLebanon: The Switzerland of the Middle EastThe Entry of Foreign InfluencesThe Political Nature of the ConflictHezbollah: Defender or Instigator?The Shift in Hezbollah’s PowerThe Cost of Hezbollah’s PowerHezbollah’s Tenuous Claim to Protect LebanonForeign Influence: Iran, Syria, and Hezbollah’s AxisLebanon’s Struggle for SovereigntyA Glimmer of Hope: The Next GenerationWhat Must Change for Lebanon to be FreeThe Role of International CommunityThe Future of Lebanon: What Lies AheadConclusionFAQsRelated Articles
Lebanon: The Switzerland of the Middle East
In its early years, Lebanon thrived as a neutral, economically prosperous nation. Its geographic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa made it a hub of trade and culture. Beirut, its capital, was renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, drawing tourists, investors, and intellectuals from across the globe.
However, this golden era did not last. As Khoury puts it, “Lebanon is like the Switzerland of the Middle East, but it’s been caught in wars that aren’t even ours.” The country’s strategic location and political landscape made it vulnerable to external conflicts, with Lebanon becoming a pawn in larger regional power struggles.
The Entry of Foreign Influences
The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) entered Lebanon in the late 1960s, marking the beginning of foreign entanglements that would plague the country for decades. Initially seen as a refugee issue, the PLO’s presence soon escalated into a significant political and military force within Lebanon. This laid the groundwork for further external interference, including the rise of Hezbollah in the early 1980s.
Hezbollah, backed by Iran and Syria, emerged as a Shiite militia aimed at resisting Israeli occupation. Over time, however, Hezbollah grew into a powerful political entity, heavily influenced by foreign powers. As Khoury noted, “Hezbollah is not just a Shiite party; it’s an unconstitutional militia with foreign backing.”
The Political Nature of the Conflict
Contrary to popular belief, Khoury argues that Lebanon’s conflict is not rooted in religion. “The war was not Christians versus Muslims; it was political—democracy versus autocracy.” The true battle in Lebanon, according to Khoury, is between democratic values and authoritarian rule imposed by foreign interests.
Hezbollah: Defender or Instigator?
Hezbollah initially presented itself as Lebanon’s defender against Israeli aggression. However, over time, its actions have shown that it is more than just a resistance group. Khoury points out that Hezbollah has become a symbol of foreign interference, working in the interests of Iran and Syria rather than Lebanon itself.
Hezbollah has lost the war with Israel, but more importantly, it has lost Lebanon,” Khoury remarked, highlighting the group’s declining political power. Despite this, Hezbollah remains a dominant force due to its military strength, not its political legitimacy.
The Shift in Hezbollah’s Power
Though Hezbollah has lost its political majority, it retains significant influence through its military capabilities. “Without arms, Hezbollah is meaningless—its entire existence hinges on its military might,” Khoury explains. This military presence makes it difficult for Lebanon to achieve peace, as Hezbollah’s power lies not in its political agenda but in its ability to wield force.