Hezbollah is reportedly considering a return to its 1980s-era suicide tactics in response to the ongoing Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. 2 million people, deepening regional tensions. S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon, the agreement remains fragile as hostilities persist on both sides. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that Hezbollah has been weakened, the group is now looking to revive the very tactics that caused widespread devastation decades ago.
Activation of Suicide Squads and 1980s Tactics
A Hezbollah leader informed Al Jazeera Arabic that the organization intends to resume suicide operations within occupied Lebanese territories. He clarified that Hezbollah would revert to its 1980s strategies, activating suicide squads specifically to prevent the Israeli military from establishing a permanent presence. According to sources, large groups of suicide bombers have already been deployed in occupied areas of southern Lebanon following a pre-arranged strategic plan.
Targeting Israeli Officers and Personnel
The primary mission of these suicide bombers is to engage directly with enemy officers and soldiers stationed in occupied Lebanese villages. Hezbollah anticipates that the activation of these squads will lead to a sharp increase in Israeli military casualties, potentially forcing a withdrawal from Lebanese territory. This tactical shift aims to disrupt Israeli operations and reclaim control over the border villages currently under occupation.
Humanitarian Impact and the 'Yellow Line'
Since March 2, Israeli attacks have claimed the lives of nearly 2,500 people in Lebanon, including medical professionals and journalists. 2 million people homeless. Residents within this zone are prohibited from returning to their homes, many of which have been demolished along with entire villages by Israeli forces.
While attacks between Israel and Lebanon had briefly subsided following the Gaza ceasefire, the situation reignited after the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader in an Israeli strike on February 28. In response, Hezbollah coordinated attacks with Iran against Israel. On March 2, Israel resumed its full-scale military operations in Lebanon, leading to significant casualties and damage among the civilian population.