The Global Story The war in Lebanon, explained
Mar 19, 2026
Hugo Bachega, BBC Middle East correspondent reporting from Beirut since Oct 2023, gives on-the-ground perspective. He describes Beirut under air strikes and mass displacement. He traces how Lebanon became a front in the Iran war and why Hezbollah evolved into a political and military force. He outlines Israeli ground operations, fears of occupation, and why the conflict could persist.
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Hezbollah Acted As Iran's Proxy In This Chapter
- Hezbollah's recent attacks were a symbolic response to Iran's supreme leader's killing and reflect Tehran's strong backing.
- Hugo Bachega explains Hezbollah is financed, armed and backed by Iran, linking Lebanese escalation to the wider US-Israel‑Iran war.
One Million Lebanese Forced From Their Homes
- The displacement crisis is massive: about one million people, roughly 20% of Lebanon's population, many from Shia communities.
- Hugo Bachega describes tents in Martyr Square and families sleeping on the Corniche after repeated displacements since 2024.
Limited Incursions Look Like An Invasion
- Israeli ground operations are framed as 'limited' but amount to troops operating inside Lebanon and large evacuation warnings.
- Hugo Bachega warns roughly a fifth of Lebanon faces evacuation orders and fears of occupation and a long-term presence.