AXIS OF RESISTANCE

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Context: The ‘Axis of Resistance’ is a coalition of Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and the Houthis, formed to counter US and Israeli influence in the region.

Details

• The concept of the "axis of resistance" refers to a coalition of militant and political groups in the Middle East that are supported by Iran and oppose Western and Israeli influence in the region. This alliance is rooted in the geopolitical and ideological struggles that have shaped the region, particularly following the Iranian Revolution of 1979.

Formation of the Axis of Resistance

Historical Background

• Iranian Revolution (1979): The revolution led to the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The new regime, driven by a radical Shia ideology, sought to expand its influence across the Middle East, a region predominantly Sunni.
• Strategic Objectives: Iran aimed to counterbalance the influence of Sunni-majority states like Saudi Arabia and to oppose Western, particularly U.S., influence in the region. This strategy involved supporting non-state actors and militant groups as a means to extend its political and military reach.

Naming and Inspiration

• Axis of Resistance: The term is derived from former U.S. President George W. Bush's "Axis of Evil," which refers to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea. Iran and its allies adopted a similar terminology to emphasize their opposition to U.S. and Israeli policies.

 Key Groups in the Axis of Resistance

Hezbollah	●Formation: Established in the early 1980s by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Hezbollah is a Shiite militant group formed to resist Israeli invasion in Lebanon. ●Strength and Capabilities: Hezbollah is one of the most powerful members of the Axis, with a large arsenal and an estimated 30,000 to 45,000 members. It has engaged in several conflicts with Israel, including the 2006 Lebanon War and frequent skirmishes thereafter. ●Role: Hezbollah operates primarily in Lebanon but has also been involved in regional conflicts, including in Syria.
Hamas	●Background: Hamas emerged during the First Intifada (1987) as a Sunni Islamist group opposing Israeli rule. It has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007. ●Ideology: Hamas opposes Zionism and seeks to establish an Islamic state in Palestine. ●Support: Iran provides Hamas with funding, weapons, and military training, enhancing its capabilities against Israel.
Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)	●Formation: Founded in 1979 as an offshoot of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood, PIJ aims to establish an Islamic state in Palestine. ●Presence: It is the second-largest militant group in Gaza and the West Bank, after Hamas. ●Activities: PIJ is known for its militant actions against Israel and has received support from Iran, including funding and arms.
Houthis	●Background: The Houthis, or Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi Shia militant group in Yemen. They began their insurgency in the early 2000s and took control of Sana’a, Yemen’s capital, in 2014. ●Regional Impact: The Houthis have been involved in the ongoing Yemeni civil war and have attacked shipping in the Red Sea in response to Israeli actions in Gaza, demonstrating their alignment with the Axis.

Current Developments and Challenges

• Recent Incidents: The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has heightened tensions. Both Hamas and Iran have attributed the attack to Israel, leading to threats of retaliation and potential escalation in the region.
• Potential Escalation: The assassination could lead to increased attacks by Iranian-backed groups against Israel. The axis of resistance remains a formidable challenge to Israeli and Western interests, with these groups frequently engaging in asymmetric warfare and political manoeuvring.
• Implications and Strategic Considerations
• Regional Dynamics: The axis of resistance complicates regional geopolitics, influencing conflicts in Lebanon, Gaza, Yemen, and beyond.
• International Reactions: The support and actions of these groups impact international relations, particularly between Iran, the U.S., Israel, and their respective allies.

Conclusion

• The Axis of Resistance is a significant geopolitical alliance driven by Iran’s strategic interests and its opposition to Western and Israeli influence. The coalition’s members, including Hezbollah, Hamas, PIJ, and the Houthis, play crucial roles in regional conflicts and have substantial implications for Middle Eastern and global security.

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Source:

Indian Express

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. What was the primary reason for the formation of the 'Axis of Resistance' by Iran? A. To establish a Sunni Islamic state B. To counter US and Israeli influence in the region C. To promote economic development in the Middle East D. To form a military alliance with Saudi Arabia  Answer: B