Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In this episode of the MEF Podcast, host Lauri Regan is joined by Michael Rubin, Director of Policy Analysis at the Middle East Forum, to examine why Hezbollah continues to block any meaningful path to stability between the two countries.
Rubin breaks down Hezbollah’s role as an Iranian proxy, its impact on Lebanese sovereignty, and why diplomatic efforts repeatedly fail when the group remains armed and politically entrenched. He also explores the limits of the Lebanese Armed Forces, the risks of international miscalculation, and what a realistic strategy toward disarmament might look like.
The conversation addresses broader regional dynamics, including Iran’s influence, Hezbollah’s evolving tactics, and the growing challenges facing policymakers seeking long-term security in the region.
This episode offers a clear-eyed analysis of why peace remains elusive—and what conditions would need to change to make it possible.
In this episode of the MEF Podcast, host Lauri Regan is joined by Michael Rubin, Director of Policy Analysis at the Middle East Forum, to examine why Hezbollah continues to block any meaningful path to stability between the two countries.
Rubin breaks down Hezbollah’s role as an Iranian proxy, its impact on Lebanese sovereignty, and why diplomatic efforts repeatedly fail when the group remains armed and politically entrenched. He also explores the limits of the Lebanese Armed Forces, the risks of international miscalculation, and what a realistic strategy toward disarmament might look like.
The conversation addresses broader regional dynamics, including Iran’s influence, Hezbollah’s evolving tactics, and the growing challenges facing policymakers seeking long-term security in the region.
This episode offers a clear-eyed analysis of why peace remains elusive—and what conditions would need to change to make it possible.
