Lebanon history of wars - conflicts
Introduction
Lebanon has experienced numerous conflicts throughout its history, with several major wars and armed conflicts shaping the country’s political landscape. Here’s an overview of the significant wars involving Lebanon:
Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990)
The Lebanese Civil War was the most protracted and devastating conflict in Lebanon’s history. It lasted for 15 years and resulted in approximately 90,000 to 100,000 fatalities. This complex conflict involved various Lebanese factions, as well as external actors such as Syria, Israel, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
Wars with Israel
1978 South Lebanon conflict: Also known as Operation Litani, this was the first Israeli invasion of Lebanon.
1982 Lebanon War: The second major Israeli invasion, also called Operation Peace for Galilee. This conflict led to the expulsion of the PLO from Lebanon and had significant consequences for the region.
2006 Lebanon War: A 34-day military conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, also referred to as the July War.
Other Significant Conflicts
Syrian intervention (1976): Syria intervened in the Lebanese Civil War, initially supporting Christian factions.
War of the Camps (1985-1988): A series of battles between Palestinian groups and the Amal Movement, backed by Syria.
1993 Seven-Day War: An Israeli operation against Hezbollah called “Operation Accountability”.
1996 April Aggression: A 17-day Israeli military offensive against Hezbollah, known as Operation Grapes of Wrath.
2007 Lebanon conflict: An internal armed conflict.
2008 Lebanon conflict: Another internal armed conflict.
Syrian Civil War spillover (2011-present): Lebanon has been affected by the ongoing Syrian Civil War, with tensions and occasional violence spilling over the border.
Current conflict
Israel-Hezbollah conflict (2023-present): The most recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border.
Conclusion
It’s important to note that this list includes major wars and significant armed conflicts. Lebanon has also experienced numerous smaller-scale clashes, political assassinations, and periods of instability throughout its history. The complex nature of Lebanon’s political and sectarian landscape has contributed to its vulnerability to both internal and external conflicts.
