Ayatollah Khamenei Appoints Hezbollah’s Naim Qassem as Lebanon Representative
Ayatollah Khamenei has appointed Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon, tasked with handling religious affairs. This change follows the deaths of previous leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine in recent Israeli strikes. Qassem’s designation emphasizes Hezbollah’s role as part of Iran’s alliance opposed to Israel.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appointed Sheikh Naim Qassem as his official representative in Lebanon, according to Iranian media reports. This decision was conveyed through a decree published by the Tasnim news agency, underscoring Qassem’s role in managing Lebanon’s religious affairs and handling various non-litigious matters. Qassem’s appointment follows the deaths of his predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah, and heir apparent Hashem Safieddine, both killed in Israeli military operations.
Hezbollah is recognized as a key component of the “axis of resistance,” an alliance that includes various Iranian-backed groups opposing Israel and its United States ally. Khamenei holds ultimate authority over Iran’s state matters, maintaining representatives across Iran’s provinces tasked with responsibilities including the collection of religious contributions. Following the establishment of a fragile ceasefire with Israel, Hezbollah postponed public memorial services for Nasrallah and Safieddine, now scheduled for February 23.
The appointment of Sheikh Naim Qassem by Ayatollah Khamenei as the representative in Lebanon reflects Iran’s continued influence through proxy groups like Hezbollah. This development occurs amid heightened tensions due to the recent deaths of prominent Hezbollah leaders, further solidifying Hezbollah’s role within the broader context of the ongoing conflict with Israel.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
