With Trump pressure and a ‘new Lebanon,’ can Hezbollah’s shadow economy be dismantled?

## Hezbollah’s Grip on Lebanon: A Shifting Landscape?

This article explores the evolving power dynamics of Hezbollah in Lebanon, examining the challenges the group faces and the strategies employed to maintain its influence.

• Changing Visuals: Billboards in Beirut’s southern suburbs, once dominated by Hezbollah and Iranian propaganda, are now featuring Western brands and patriotic messages, reflecting a shift in the political landscape.
• Weakened Infrastructure: The article highlights how the group’s financial infrastructure has been weakened by the Israeli assault, and the group is facing its greatest predicament since its foundation.
• Financial Challenges: Hezbollah is facing increased pressure on its finances, with the Lebanese government cracking down on its illicit activities, including a ban on dealings with a Hezbollah-linked financial entity.
• Governmental Changes: The Lebanese government is taking steps to assert control, including the government taking control of the airport and firing staff linked to Hezbollah.
• International Pressure: The U.S. is putting pressure on Lebanon to crack down on Hezbollah’s activities, with the potential for further sanctions and efforts to limit the group’s access to funds.
• The Path Forward: While Hezbollah’s influence persists, the article suggests that a combination of international pressure, economic reforms, and strategic diplomacy is needed to weaken the group’s grip on Lebanon.

For a deeper dive into the complexities of Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon, check out the original article on [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/26/hezbollah-faces-its-greatest-predicament-in-lebanon.html).