Hezbollah Leader Praises Hamas in First Statement Since Attacks

What is Hezbollah, what role does it play in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and could it open a new front in the war?

What is Hezbollah? Hezbollah is a Shia Muslim political and military group operating in Lebanon, bordering Israel to the north. The group was formed in the 1980s and is still funded by Iran. It is designated as a terror organization by the United States and other Western nations. The head of the group is Hasan Nasrallah.

Key Quotes: On Friday, Hasan Nasrallah spoke publicly for the first time since the Hamas attack last month. Nasrallah called the Hamas attack “a heroic, brave act.” He said Hezbollah fighters have engaged with Israeli Defense Forces, with 57 Hezbollah fighters having been killed already in the fighting. “Some claim Hezbollah is about to join the fray. I tell you: We have been engaged in this battle since Oct. 8. Some would like Hezbollah to engage in an all-out war, but I can tell you: What is happening now along the Israeli-Lebanese border is significant, and it is not the end.” He added, “What we have done since Oct. 8 is unprecedented in terms of our fighting strategy.” Late last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah would be making the “mistake of its life” if it entered the conflict.

How the Media Covered It: Nasrallah’s comments were covered across the spectrum, but most prominently and frequently in right-rated outlets.