Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement has appointed Naim Qassem, a founding member and long-time deputy leader, as its new head following the death of former leader Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike last month. This transition marks a pivotal shift as Hezbollah navigates one of its most intense confrontations with Israel in years.
Qassem, 71, was selected by Hezbollah’s Shura Council, the group’s main governing body, in a move that reinforces the group’s commitment to resistance amid recent losses. Known for his decades of service since Hezbollah’s founding in 1982, Qassem has previously served in the shadow of Nasrallah but is now stepping into a highly visible role. His appointment follows the deaths of several other senior Hezbollah figures in Israeli strikes, including Hashem Safieddine, previously tipped as Nasrallah’s successor.
The appointment comes amid escalating violence in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have struck multiple Hezbollah strongholds, particularly in Beirut and the Bekaa Valley. Lebanon’s health ministry reports that over 1,700 people have died and thousands have been injured since late September. Israel has also sustained losses, with 37 soldiers reportedly killed in the recent confrontations, as Hezbollah has launched sustained rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights.
In recent addresses, Qassem emphasized Hezbollah’s resilience and continued military capability despite the recent setbacks. He has advocated for a ceasefire to allow displaced residents on both sides of the conflict to return to their homes, suggesting that a diplomatic route could provide temporary stability. However, he has reiterated Hezbollah’s stance on resistance, stating that the group will pursue its objectives “until victory is achieved.”
This leadership change places Qassem at the forefront of Hezbollah’s strategy in Lebanon as the group and its supporters brace for continued tensions with Israel.
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