Hamas, Hezbollah, Houthis - Iran's proxies at work - The Global Jigsaw podcast, BBC World Service

Summary

This episode of The Global Jigsaw delves into the complexities of the Middle East's geopolitical landscape, focusing on Iran's so-called 'Axis of Resistance'—an alliance of groups opposing Israeli and US influence. The series explores Iran's strategic support for regional proxies such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Palestine, and the Houthi rebels in Yemen, highlighting their shared anti-colonial and anti-imperialist ideologies. The episode discusses the historical context of these alliances, the impact of the Gaza war on regional dynamics, and the potential future of these resistance movements. It underscores the role of Iran in providing military and financial backing to these groups, while also examining the internal and external pressures they face, including tensions within the Axis of Resistance and the challenges posed by international recognition of a Palestinian state.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The 'Axis of Resistance' is a coalition led by Iran, which includes allies and proxies opposed to Israeli and US influence in the Middle East.
• ⚔️ Iran launched a direct attack on Israel from its territory in April, marking a historic moment and causing celebration in Tehran.
• 🔄 Iran's network of allies and proxies, such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, have played significant roles in shaping events in the Middle East.
• 🇮🇱 Hezbollah, meaning 'the Party of God' in Arabic, is considered a key group backed by Iran and has deep societal roots in Lebanon.
• 🤝 Iran has provided substantial support to Hamas, reflecting a strategic alliance based on shared enemies.
• 📈 The Houthis, backed by Iran, have gained global attention by attacking ships in the Red Sea and demanding an end to the Gaza conflict.
• 💣 The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) in Iraq, largely backed by Iran, have grown in strength and influence despite the decline of ISIS.
• 🇸🇾 The Syrian government's survival is largely credited to Iranian and Russian support, with Iran providing significant military and financial aid.
• 📊 Iran's influence in the region is strategic, aiming to counter Western and Israeli influence while expanding its own power.
• 🔄 Tensions within the Axis of Resistance show that while Iran can lead the coalition, it faces challenges in maintaining unity among its allies.
• 🌟 The future of the Axis of Resistance is tied to ongoing regional crises, which provide opportunities for Iran and its allies to grow and assert their influence.

Q & A

What is the term 'Axis of Resistance' as referred to by Iran?

The 'Axis of Resistance' is a term used by Iran to describe a coalition of allies and proxies that are against Israeli and US influence in the Middle East. It encompasses the history of anti-colonial struggle in the region, with the Arabic term 'muqawama' and Persian 'muqawamat' referring to resistance.

How did Iran's attack on Israel from its own territory in mid-April affect the region?

Iran's attack marked a historic first and prompted jubilation in Tehran. It demonstrated Iran's willingness and capability to launch direct attacks, which could potentially escalate conflicts and shape events in the Middle East.

What is Hezbollah's role in the Axis of Resistance?

Hezbollah, meaning 'the party of God' in Arabic, is often described as the jewel in the crown of the groups backed by Iran. It is a significant player in the Axis of Resistance, with a guiding religious ideology and extensive support from Iran.

How has Iran's support for Hamas influenced the group?

Iran has been said to provide substantial support for Hamas, framing their alliance under the principle that 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend.' This has helped Hamas maintain its operational capabilities and political influence.

What is the significance of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) in Iraq?

The PMF, also known as al-Hashashabi in Arabic, is a coalition of paramilitary entities in Iraq that has been largely backed by Iran. It has grown in influence and numbers post the defeat of the Islamic State, becoming a significant political and economic force within Iraqi society.

How did the Badr Brigades gain influence within the Iraqi government?

The Badr Brigades played a role in the democratic process in Iraq, allowing them to gain influence and control over the interior ministry from 2005 onwards. This enabled them to place their personnel within the security forces, thus consolidating their power.

What has been the impact of the sectarian violence in Baghdad post-2003?

The sectarian bloodbath in Baghdad resulted in thousands of deaths, with estimates suggesting around 35 to 40,000 civilians killed annually during that period. This led to a significant demographic shift, with mixed districts in Iraq becoming almost non-existent.

Why is the presence of American forces in the Middle East seen as an obstacle to Iranian interests?

American forces, though not numerous, have been able to keep ISIS at bay and prevent the establishment of an uncontested zone of control from Tehran to the Mediterranean by Iran-backed paramilitary forces. This is seen as a hindrance to Tehran's regional ambitions.

How has the relationship between Hamas and Iran evolved over time?

While ideologically Hamas, a Sunni group, and Iran, a Shia-majority state, are on opposite sides of the sectarian divide, their relationship has been one of convenience. Iran has provided financial and military support to Hamas, which has worked in favor of Iranian interests in the region.

What is the Houthis' stance on Israel and their role in the conflict?

The Houthis, a Yemen-based group, are staunchly anti-Israel and anti-West, with their slogan being 'death to America and death to Israel.' They have conducted attacks on ships in the Red Sea to exert pressure on Israel to halt its military campaign in Gaza, positioning themselves as defenders of the Palestinian cause.

How does Hezbollah's media presence contribute to its influence?

Hezbollah has a powerful media machine, including its own TV station Al Manar and a network of pro-Hezbollah outlets. This allows them to disseminate their messages and official statements, enhancing their appeal and reinforcing their image as a resistance movement.