Hezbollah leadership
Hezbollah’s Deputy Chief Issues Defiant Message After Leader’s Death
Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, vowed that the Lebanese armed group is fully prepared to confront an Israeli ground invasion, even after the death of its leader Hassan Nasrallah and several senior commanders. In a public address on Monday, Qassem asserted that Israel had not damaged Hezbollah’s military capabilities despite the recent bombardment of Lebanon. He emphasized that the Iran-backed group would continue its fight unabated. Qassem noted that Hezbollah’s operations have not slowed since Nasrallah’s assassination on Friday, stating that a new leadership would soon be appointed through internal mechanisms. He did not offer further specifics on who might take over but indicated that the process was clear.
Hezbollah Confirms Nasrallah’s Death as Iran Warns of Retaliation Against Israel
Iran has called on Muslims to unite against Israel, following the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike that killed Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Labeling Israel a "rabid dog," Iran urged support for Hezbollah as the militant group confirmed Nasrallah’s death and vowed to continue its fight against Israel. Hezbollah's statement said that their leader had "joined his fellow martyrs" and pledged to persist in their struggle, stating, "The leadership of Hezbollah pledges to continue its jihad against the enemy, supporting Gaza and Palestine, and defending Lebanon and its steadfast people."