Ayatollah Khamenei has appointed Sheikh Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon, entrusting him with managing religious affairs and non-litigious matters. This development follows the deaths of previous leaders Nasrallah and Safieddine in recent Israeli air strikes. Hezbollah continues to play a central role in the ‘axis of resistance’ against Israel, emphasizing Iran’s regional influence.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has designated Hezbollah’s leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, as his official representative in Lebanon, according to Iranian media sources. This announcement was made via an official decree reported by Tasnim news agency. Qassem’s role will encompass managing non-litigious matters and religious affairs in Lebanon, a significant position indicating strong ties between Iran and Hezbollah.
This announcement follows the recent deaths of Hezbollah’s former leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine, due to Israeli air strikes. Hezbollah is recognized as a component of the “axis of resistance,” a coalition consisting of Iran-supported armed factions opposing Israel and its American ally. Khamenei has representatives in all Iranian provinces tasked with collecting religious funds and performing various duties.
Sheikh Naim Qassem, who was appointed as Hezbollah’s leader in October, now steps into this pivotal role. Hezbollah plans to hold a public funeral for both Nasrallah and Safieddine on February 23. The organization postponed public memorial services for security reasons until a temporary ceasefire was established with Israel on November 27.
The announcement regarding Sheikh Naim Qassem’s appointment as Khamenei’s representative in Lebanon underscores Iran’s influence in the region through Hezbollah. As a key player in the ongoing tensions with Israel, Hezbollah is a part of the larger ‘axis of resistance,’ which includes various Iran-aligned militias. The recent deaths of Nasrallah and Safieddine mark a significant transition in leadership for the group, which plays a critical role in Lebanese politics and military activities against Israel.
In summary, Ayatollah Khamenei’s designation of Sheikh Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon signifies Iran’s enduring influence over Hezbollah and its aligned factions. The appointment comes in the wake of significant leadership changes within Hezbollah and exemplifies the ongoing tensions in the region, particularly in relation to Israel. With Qassem at the helm, Hezbollah aims to further its objectives as part of the resistant alliance against Israel and the US.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
