Hezbollah’s Future Following Nasrallah’s Death: Challenges and Strategies

Following Hassan Nasrallah’s passing, Iranian officials attended his funeral to display support for Hezbollah. The group faces financial and operational challenges, having suffered losses in recent confrontations with Israel. Despite this, Hezbollah remains influential in Lebanon, emphasizing its commitment to resistance as it seeks to rebuild its capabilities and navigate a shifting geopolitical landscape.

In the wake of Hassan Nasrallah’s death, Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, visited Lebanon for his funeral, showing Iran’s ongoing support for Hezbollah. Despite facing significant losses during recent conflicts with Israel, Hezbollah demonstrated its resilience by gathering an estimated 200,000 pro-Iranian supporters at the service, indicating their commitment to resistance.

Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, delivered a pre-recorded speech emphasizing the group’s determination to continue its fight, even at the cost of their lives. While it remains uncertain if Hezbollah will focus on rebuilding its arsenal to target Israel, they undoubtedly face numerous challenges, including loss of funding and personnel.

The organization struggles financially and must contend with Israel’s strategic hold over key border areas. While Hezbollah maintains its reputation as Lebanon’s most powerful armed group, it faces criticism for undermining state sovereignty while managing internal funding issues. The group seeks to reclaim areas in southern Lebanon, which could take an extended period.

Historically, Hezbollah has rebuilt its arsenal after previous conflicts, and although it currently possesses between 10,000 to 20,000 rockets and projectiles, the challenge of acquiring new arms remains. With the Assad regime weakened, Hezbollah must identify new smuggling routes to replenish its resources.

Hezbollah may exploit the power vacuum in southern Syria, where it can potentially regain its influence, further aided by the consequences of Israeli airstrikes. It is also important for Hezbollah to monitor the geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to Saudi Arabia’s interactions with Iran, to navigate its future strategy effectively.

Hezbollah faces a complex array of challenges following Hassan Nasrallah’s death, including rebuilding its operational capabilities and recovering financially. The organization remains powerful and influential but must adapt to changing regional dynamics while addressing its internal struggles. Its reliance on Iranian support and the power vacuum in southern Syria may shape its future actions as it seeks to reestablish its presence and arsenal.

Original Source: www.jpost.com