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| A poster of the late Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrullah next to the group's flag. This was taken on a street near Sidon, Lebanon, on July 7, 2020. File photo: Reuters. |
Who Will Succeed Hasan Nasrullah as Leader of Hezbollah?
Ongoing Speculation Following Nasrullah's Death: In the wake of Hasan Nasrullah's death in an Israeli airstrike, speculation is rampant about who will take the helm of Hezbollah. Hashem Safieddine, often regarded as the organization's second-in-command, is seen as a strong contender for the leadership position. But who is Hashem Safieddine?
Background on Hashem Safieddine: Safieddine currently serves as the head of Hezbollah's Executive Council, where he oversees the group's political affairs. He is also a member of the Jihad Council, which is responsible for managing Hezbollah's military operations. As a cousin of the late Nasrullah, Safieddine shares a strong familial and ideological bond with the former leader. Like Nasrullah, he is a religious scholar, often recognized by his black turban.
Recent Statements: During a recent visit to the Dahieh area in southern Beirut, Safieddine emphasized the group's commitment, stating, "Our history, our guns, and our rockets are with you."
Support from Nasrullah: Nasrullah was instrumental in helping Safieddine secure various roles within Hezbollah's councils. According to Philip Smith, an expert on Iran-backed Shia militias, Nasrullah actively worked to advance Safieddine's career within the organization.
Designation as a Terrorist: In 2017, the U.S. State Department designated Safieddine as a terrorist. Following the death of a Hezbollah commander in an Israeli attack last June, he issued a stark warning: "Prepare for the cries and wails of (the enemies)." His statements often reflect Hezbollah's military posture and resolve.
Conclusion: As Hezbollah approaches this critical leadership transition, Hashem Safieddine appears poised to assume a more prominent role. His extensive experience and close ties to Hasan Nasrullah position him as a significant figure in shaping the organization's future. The international community will be closely monitoring this development, as it may have far-reaching implications for regional stability and the ongoing conflict with Israel.