In a surprising turn, the Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah has withdrawn its previously declared support for Iran amid rising tensions with Israel and the United States. While Hezbollah had earlier expressed readiness to launch attacks on Israel in solidarity with Iran, the group has now clarified that it will not engage in any offensive actions unless provoked directly. In a statement to international media, a Hezbollah spokesperson said, “Iran is capable of defending itself. Even if the U.S. and Israel attack together, Iran can respond appropriately. We remain committed to the ceasefire agreement and will not strike Israeli territory unless attacked first.”
This reversal comes just days after the U.S. carried out airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, further escalating instability in the region. The statement marks a significant shift in Hezbollah’s stance, especially given its history of supporting Iran militarily. In late 2023, Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel in support of Hamas, which led to retaliatory strikes from the Israeli military that destroyed several Hezbollah installations. Following this, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement was reached between the two sides in November. Hezbollah’s latest decision to refrain from intervening highlights the shifting dynamics in West Asia and the increasing isolation Iran faces as the conflict intensifies.