Hezbollah Elects Veteran Leader Qassem as New Chief
Hezbollah announced on Tuesday that Naim Qassem, former deputy head, has been appointed to succeed Hassan Nasrallah as the group’s secretary general following Nasrallah’s death in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburb over a month ago. Qassem, 71, was chosen by Hezbollah’s Shura Council in line with its long-established selection process.
Qassem’s Long Tenure and Rise to Leadership
Qassem, appointed deputy chief by Abbas al-Musawi in 1991, held the position when Nasrallah assumed leadership and has been a primary spokesperson for the group. Known for his extensive experience, he frequently represented Hezbollah in media as tensions with Israel intensified, lending his voice amid Lebanon’s ongoing political struggles and Hezbollah’s cross-border hostilities with Israel over the past year.
Qassem Takes Charge Amid Regional Tensions
Since Nasrallah’s death, Qassem has stepped forward in televised statements, most recently supporting efforts for a Lebanon ceasefire. However, many in Lebanon view him as lacking Nasrallah’s dynamic leadership style, leaving questions about Hezbollah’s future approach to regional conflicts. The group continues to grapple with rising hostilities as Qassem takes on the crucial role of guiding Hezbollah through this volatile period.