Africa and the Middle East

Hezbollah and the Shiite Community: From Political Confessionalization to Confessional Specialization

November 19, 2010  • Ziad Majed

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This paper analyzes the evolution of the Shiite political elites within the Lebanese confessional and consociational political system. It also explores the circumstances that gave rise to Hezbollah and established it as the most popular and powerful force in the Shiite community. The paper explains recent political developments in Lebanon, particularly the mounting Sunni-Shiite tensions, and offers recommendations to address the ongoing Lebanese political crisis.