The Islamic Republic of Iran and the Reconstruction of War-Torn Lebanon, 1988-2003

The Islamic Republic of Iran and the Reconstruction of War-Torn Lebanon, 1988-2003 Abstract Since the early 1980s Iran has helped Hizbollah deliver an extensive array of public and social services to the Shiite community in Lebanon. Iranian assistance has proved critical to the political and military success of the organization and the empowerment of the Shiite community. This article discusses Iranian motives in providing this assistance. It also examines the role played by the Ministry of Construction Jihad in rebuilding Shiite inhabited parts of Lebanon. It argues that Iranian support is driven by ideology rather than geopolitical and strategic considerations. With respect to the ministry's reconstruction efforts, it argues that while the ministry rendered a valuable service, it could have accomplished much more if it had managed the effort properly. Key words: Hizballah, Iran, Jihad al-Bian, Lebanon, The Ministry of Construction Jihad, Lebanese Shiites