Hezbollah Elects New Secretary General after Nasrallah’s Death
Succession Announced Thirty Days after Nasrallah’s Killing
Lebanese armed group Hezbollah announced on Tuesday that it had elected Deputy Secretary General Naim Qassem as the new leader of the group, following the death of Hassan Nasrallah. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli air attack on Beirut’s southern suburb over a month ago.
Qassem’s Appointment
The announcement was made in a written statement by Hezbollah, which stated that its Shura Council had elected Qassem in accordance with its established mechanism for choosing a secretary general. Qassem, 71, has been a long-time member of Hezbollah and has served as the group’s deputy chief since 1991, when he was appointed by then-Secretary General Abbas al-Musawi, who was killed by an Israeli helicopter attack the following year.
A Leading Figure in Hezbollah
Qassem has remained in his role as deputy chief since Nasrallah became leader and has been one of the group’s leading spokesmen, conducting interviews with foreign media, including during periods of cross-border hostilities with Israel last year.
Succession Crisis after Nasrallah’s Death
After Nasrallah’s killing, senior Hezbollah figure Hashem Safieddine, considered the most likely successor, was also killed in an Israeli strike a week later, leaving concerns over the group’s leadership. However, Qassem has given three televised addresses since Nasrallah’s death, including one on October 8, in which he expressed support for efforts to reach a ceasefire for Lebanon.
Qassem’s Role in the Future of Hezbollah
As the new Secretary General of Hezbollah, Naim Qassem is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the group’s future policies and direction. His experience and leadership will be crucial in navigating the complex regional dynamics and tensions with neighboring countries, particularly Israel.
FAQs
- Who is Naim Qassem?
Naim Qassem is the new Secretary General of Hezbollah, elected by the group’s Shura Council. - When was Qassem appointed as Deputy Secretary General?
Qassem was appointed as Deputy Secretary General in 1991 by Abbas al-Musawi, the then-Secretary General of Hezbollah. - What is Qassem’s role in Hezbollah?
Qassem has been a leading figure in Hezbollah, serving as the group’s Deputy Chief and leading spokesman. - What is the significance of Qassem’s election?
Qassem’s election is significant as it consolidates the group’s leadership and gives a clear direction to its future policies and actions.