Following the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, Iranian officials underscored their support for Hezbollah amidst its challenges after recent conflicts. Sheikh Naim Qassem reiterated Hezbollah’s commitment to resistance against Israel, while Iran emphasized unity among Lebanese factions. Despite facing financial difficulties and losses, Hezbollah aims to rebuild its arsenal and maintain its influence in Lebanon and southern Syria.
Iranian officials have recently visited Lebanon for the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, signaling Iran’s ongoing expectations for Hezbollah. During their trip, parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Sheikh Naim Qassem, the Deputy Secretary General of Hezbollah, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to the group despite its recent setbacks against Israel.
Nasrallah’s funeral on February 23 was anticipated to showcase Hezbollah’s strength, attracting a significant turnout of around 200,000 pro-Iranian supporters from various regions, highlighting Hezbollah’s enduring influence. In a pre-recorded speech, Qassem vowed to continue the fight against Israeli forces, even at great personal risk, indicating a determination to restore Hezbollah’s capabilities and arsenal amid ongoing challenges.
Following the loss of Nasrallah and his successor, Hisham Safieddine, both buried during the funeral, Qassem’s statements raised questions about Hezbollah’s strategy moving forward. The Iranian delegation also met with Mojtaba Amani, the Iranian ambassador to Lebanon, and engaged with the new Lebanese president and prime minister, reflecting continued Iranian involvement and support in Lebanese affairs.
Qalibaf praised the funeral’s display of unity among Hezbollah’s supporters, framing the resistance against Israel as an enduring ideology. He emphasized Iran’s backing for Lebanese security and stability and called for cohesion among Lebanon’s political factions, signifying Iran’s vested interest in Lebanese governance.
Despite its current challenges, including financial strain after its recent war, Hezbollah remains a dominant armed group in Lebanon. It has experienced significant losses in personnel and equipment, complicating its ability to maintain control and support its members amid these difficulties.
To regain its position and rebuild its military capabilities, Hezbollah will need to pursue new strategies, particularly in southern Lebanon, where it aims to recover its arsenal. Drawing on previous experience after the 2006 conflict, Hezbollah is expected to leverage its existing stockpile and adapt to changing dynamics in the region.
Hezbollah faces significant challenges after the deaths of its leaders and the recent conflict with Israel. While it remains influential in Lebanon, financial constraints and military losses may hinder its recovery. The group aims to rebuild its arsenal and maintain a foothold in southern Lebanon, leveraging its connections with Iran and navigating the shifting political landscape. Ultimately, its resilience and adaptability will determine its future capabilities and influence in the region.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
