Ayatollah Khamenei has named Sheikh Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon, following the recent deaths of Hezbollah’s leadership. Qassem will manage non-litigious and religious matters on behalf of Khamenei, emphasizing Iran’s strategic influence through Hezbollah amid ongoing conflict with Israel.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, has appointed Sheikh Naim Qassem, the leader of Hezbollah, as his “representative” in Lebanon. Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that this appointment was formalized in an official decree. Qassem will oversee Khamenei’s interests in managing “non-litigious matters” and handling “religious affairs” within Lebanon.
Qassem succeeds Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who was recently killed in an Israeli airstrike on September 27. Hezbollah, supported by Iran, is part of the “axis of resistance,” a coalition of groups opposing Israel and its allies. Khamenei, who possesses ultimate authority over Iranian state affairs, assigns representatives across Iran’s provinces for various religious and administrative tasks.
Following the deaths of both Nasrallah and his heir apparent, Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, Qassem was appointed leader of Hezbollah in October. A public funeral for Nasrallah and Safieddine is scheduled for February 23, after security conditions improved due to a ceasefire established on November 27.
Hezbollah’s role as Khamenei’s representative emphasizes the intertwined nature of Iranian influence in Lebanon through armed groups.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s appointment of Sheikh Naim Qassem as a representative in Lebanon highlights Iran’s strategic interests in the region. Hezbollah, a prominent militant group in Lebanon, is known for its strong ties with Tehran and forms part of the broader “axis of resistance.” This axis comprises various armed organizations united against Israel. The appointment follows significant leadership changes within Hezbollah due to recent casualties caused by Israeli military actions.
The appointment of Sheikh Naim Qassem as Khamenei’s representative in Lebanon underscores Iran’s ongoing influence through Hezbollah, especially following key leadership losses. This move solidifies Hezbollah’s role in the strategic alignment against Israel, enhancing Iran’s foothold in the region amidst ongoing tensions. The upcoming funeral for notable leaders demonstrates the group’s resilience and commitment to its ideological cause.
Original Source: www.naharnet.com
