Iranian officials attended Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral, signifying ongoing support for Hezbollah amid challenges following Nasrallah’s death. Hezbollah, under Sheikh Naim Qassem, faces significant financial and operational hurdles, yet remains committed to its resistance agenda. The organization’s resilience in rebuilding its military capabilities post-conflict will be crucial for its future effectiveness in Lebanon.
Following the demise of Hassan Nasrallah, Iranian officials attended his funeral, underscoring Tehran’s ongoing support for Hezbollah. Notably, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s second-in-command, before leaving Lebanon. This illustrates Iran’s continued investment in Hezbollah’s potential despite recent setbacks against Israel during intensified confrontations from September to November 2024.
Hezbollah’s funeral for Nasrallah, held on February 23, was an anticipated show of strength that drew roughly 200,000 pro-Iranian supporters, including a significant contingent from Iraq. In a pre-recorded address, Qassem asserted Hezbollah’s commitment to its resistance agenda, despite the apparent challenges and losses faced by the organization since the assassination of key leaders.
The question now arises as to whether Hezbollah can recover from these critical blows. Following Nasrallah’s death and the subsequent killing of his successor, Hisham Safieddine, the leadership must navigate substantial operational and financial difficulties. Qassem’s remarks suggested a robust intent to maintain its resistance posture, but the practicalities of rebuilding its military capabilities remain ambiguous.
Hezbollah is presently confronted with various challenges, including significant financial constraints and loss of military personnel. The organization is finding it increasingly difficult to compensate its members as it grapples with post-war repercussions. Furthermore, Israeli forces continue to assert their dominance, holding key strategic locations, which complicates Hezbollah’s operational landscape and aspirations.
Despite recent losses, Hezbollah remains a prominent military entity in Lebanon, though critics argue it destabilizes national sovereignty. It faces potential long-term weakening due to financial strains. Nevertheless, Hezbollah has demonstrated resilience historically, managing to rebuild its arsenal after prior conflicts, illustrating its capacity to recuperate over time.
Historically, Hezbollah has rebuilt its arsenal after significant losses. While it was previously estimated to possess approximately 13,000 projectiles in 2006, its arsenal grew substantially by 2023, with estimates reaching 200,000 units. Current assessments suggest Hezbollah may still possess between 10,000 and 20,000 rockets and can self-assemble drones, albeit rebuilding will likely require considerable time and strategic innovation.
With diminished support from the Assad regime and a shifting power dynamic in Syria, Hezbollah will seek new supply routes for its operations. Israeli airstrikes against Syrian assets may provide opportunities for Hezbollah to re-establish a foothold in southern Syria, exploiting the resulting power vacuum. The organization aims to leverage delays and strategize its return to relevance within the region while monitoring diplomatic nuances between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
In summary, the aftermath of Hassan Nasrallah’s passing poses significant challenges for Hezbollah. The group confronts financial constraints, operational losses, and continued Israeli opposition. However, its historical resilience and strategic patience may facilitate a recovery phase. As Hezbollah seeks to rebuild its capabilities amid evolving regional dynamics, its future actions, closely tied to Iranian support, will be critical to its survival and influence in Lebanon and beyond.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
