Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei has appointed Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon. Qassem will manage religious duties and non-litigious affairs, taking on a role previously held by Hassan Nasrallah. This move reflects ongoing Iran-Hezbollah collaboration against Israel amidst heightened regional tensions.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, has officially appointed Naim Qassem, the leader of Hezbollah, as his representative in Lebanon, according to Iranian media sources. The Tasnim news agency published Khamenei’s decree, stipulating that Qassem will be responsible for managing religious affairs and addressing non-litigious matters in the country. This appointment follows the deaths of Qassem’s predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah, and Hashem Safieddine due to Israeli attacks.
Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group, forms part of the “axis of resistance,” which includes various armed factions opposing Israel and its U.S. allies. Khamenei holds significant control over state matters in Iran and has representatives across different provinces, tasked with collecting religious dues and other administrative roles. The group’s leadership witnessed recent shifts following the casualties from Israeli strikes, emphasizing the ongoing tensions in the region.
The announcement of Qassem as Khamenei’s representative underscores Hezbollah’s integral role in Iran’s strategy against Israel. It reflects the continuing influence of Iran in Lebanese politics and the broader Middle Eastern landscape, especially in light of recent militant losses. The appointment also highlights the intertwined nature of religious leadership and resistance movements within the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
