In this essay for The Atlantic, Elliot Ackerman argues that Hezbollah’s conflict with Israel cannot be understood in isolation from America’s broader strategic challenges.
Drawing on his experience as a Marine Corps officer during the 2006 evacuation of Lebanon, Ackerman connects Hezbollah, Iran, Israel, Ukraine, Russia, China, and the wider struggle facing the United States and its allies.
Hezbollah, Iran, and America
Ackerman recalls serving with the First Battalion, Eighth Marines, known as the Beirut Battalion, and reflects on Hezbollah’s long history of conflict with the United States.
A Global Authoritarian Challenge
The essay argues that conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are part of a larger challenge from Iran, Russia, China, and allied authoritarian powers seeking to weaken the liberal world order.
Calling Things What They Are
At its center, the essay warns that American leaders must speak clearly about enemies, allies, and the stakes of war if the United States hopes to deter conflict and defend its friends.