Iran’s strategy of aligning with violent nonstate actors, such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, influences the regional balance of power in the Middle East. These alliances provide Iran with a counterweight to its limited conventional military capabilities and play a key part in its foreign policy. The relationship between Iran and its proxies is distinct yet interlinked, with each group maintaining its own agenda and local support base.
Hezbollah, established in the 1980s with assistance from Iran, has become a pivotal partner for Iran. It has developed a sophisticated arsenal and transitioned from guerrilla tactics to more conventional warfare. Hezbollah has also shared its expertise with other Iran-backed groups, such as the Houthi fighters in Yemen. The close relationship between Hezbollah and Iran cements their alliance, which extends Iran’s influence in the region and serves as a counterbalance to its adversaries, particularly Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Hamas, despite ideological differences with Iran, found common ground in their opposition to Israel. Iran provides financial aid, military training, and rocket technology to Hamas, which has escalated its operational capabilities. The relationship between Iran and Hamas has fluctuated but has been realigned and reinforced in recent years. Iran’s support has shifted the balance in Hamas’ conflict with Israel, demonstrating Iran’s influential role in regional power dynamics.
The Houthi movement in Yemen aligned with Iran due to shared religious beliefs and opposition to Saudi Arabia and the U.S. Iranian support for the Houthis increased after their capture of Yemen’s capital in 2014. Iran provided sophisticated weaponry, military training, and financial aid, enhancing the Houthis’ missile and drone capabilities. The Houthis have utilized this support to challenge Saudi Arabia and have expanded their operations in the Red Sea.
Iran’s proxy network extends to groups in Iraq, Syria, and beyond, and is a key part of Tehran’s strategy to expand its influence and confront its adversaries. These alliances allow Iran to adapt its strategy to shifting regional dynamics and pose a challenge to its adversaries. Navigating the complex web of relationships, interests, and ongoing conflicts involving these proxy groups is a challenge for Iran’s adversaries and has reshaped the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape.
