Hizballah, or “Party of God” is an Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon, which is led by Hassan Nasrallah. Hizballah was founded in Lebanon by Lebanese Shiites after the Israeli invasion into Lebanon in 1982. Hizballah’s main target is Israel, and has been carrying out attacks against Israeli targets for decades. Hizbollah created the Lebanese Media Group, with al-Nour Radio Station and al-Manar television station, to spread their views to Lebanese citizens but also to the entire world (Brittanica). They are currently located in the Shiite neighborhood of southern Beirut.
Al-Manar’s satellite station broadcasts for 24 hours a day. Al-Manar is extremely popular in Lebanon, being the third most watched television station in Lebanon. Israeli officials say al-Manar is also popular in the West Bank and in the Gaza Strip, second to al-Jazeera. Popularity for the station spikes when there is conflict in the south of Lebanon or Palestinian territories (Counter Extremism).
Al-Manar receives its funding through Hizballah, which is largely funded by Iran (Washington Institute). Hizballah uses al-Manar as a way to spread their messages and services to Palestinians. They also broadcast anti-American programming. al-Manar combines news, talk shows, documentaries and music programs to attract more people. Their use of music is a tool they use to keep Arabs frustrated about the Israeli-Arab conflict.
Some say it is propaganda promoting violent resistance (Counter Extremism). al-Manar shares Hizballah’s views and Hizballah actively promotes ands supports the television station. Al-Manar allows Hizballah to have a global reach.
Media in the Middle East 