Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral attracted huge crowds in Beirut, honoring the former Hezbollah leader killed by Israeli strikes. Attendees included mourners and international representatives, emphasizing Nasrallah’s influence in the region. The event occurred amidst ongoing Israeli actions in southern Lebanon, marking Hezbollah’s resilience despite recent conflicts.
On Sunday, large crowds gathered for the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, the former leader of Hezbollah, who was killed in an Israeli air strike in Beirut on September. Mourners dressed in black filled the Camille Chamoun Sports City stadium on the outskirts of Beirut, also paying respects to Hashem Safieddine, Nasrallah’s successor, who died in a separate Israeli attack prior to assuming his position.
Nasrallah was a significant figure in the Middle East and had not been seen publicly for years due to threats of assassination from Israel. The funeral began amidst continued air strikes by Israel in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah rocket launchers. Attendees braved the cold to honor Nasrallah, whose coffin was draped in the Hezbollah flag as it was paraded through the stadium.
Supporters at the funeral chanted slogans, waved flags, and held portraits of Nasrallah and Safieddine, with excerpts of Nasrallah’s speeches played throughout the event. A mourner expressed that attending the funeral was the “least we can do” for Nasrallah, who dedicated his life to his cause.
Hezbollah has transformed into a prominent political and military force under Nasrallah’s three-decade leadership, maintaining close ties with Iran and assisting groups like Hamas. Nasrallah, who died at age 64 in Dahieh, was crucial in acquiring missiles and training fighters for Hezbollah’s operations against Israel.
The mass turnout for the funeral signified Hezbollah’s strength amid recent setbacks it faced during Israel’s military actions in Lebanon last year, which resulted in casualties and displacements. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz highlighted that Israeli planes were present above the funeral, sending a message regarding the consequences for those who threaten Israel.
The Israeli-Lebanese conflict has escalated since the Gaza war, leading to a significant Israeli military campaign in Lebanon. Thousands were killed, including civilians during this offensive, which resulted in widespread displacement before a ceasefire was reached in November.
International representatives, including officials from Iran, Iraq, and Yemen, attended the funeral, which was postponed to allow for the withdrawal of some Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi referred to the deceased leaders as “two heroes of the resistance.”
The funeral of Hassan Nasrallah drew large crowds, underscoring his influence in the region and Hezbollah’s ongoing presence despite challenges from Israeli military actions. The event was marred by continued violence in Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing conflict and the significant loss of life. The attendance of international representatives emphasizes the geopolitical implications of Nasrallah’s legacy and Hezbollah’s role in regional resistance against Israel.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
