Hashem Safieddine is poised to succeed his cousin, Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah leader who died in an Israeli airstrike at the group’s headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon. The interim leadership will be handled by Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem.
However, the Shura Council must elect a new secretary-general. Safieddine, known for his strong ties to Iran, is the favourite for the role.
A Hezbollah insider indicated that Safieddine is “most likely” to take over the leadership. Lebanese researcher Amal Saad supports this view, highlighting his significant authority within the organisation.
Safieddine, in his late 50s or early 60s, is the cousin of the deceased Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. He was labelled as a “terrorist” by The United States and Saudi Arabia in 2017 due to his senior leadership role in Hezbollah.
Safieddine has close ties with Iran, having studied in Qom, and his son is married to the daughter of the late Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in a 2020 US strike in Iraq.
HASHEM SAFIEDDINE BECOMES HEZBOLLAH LEADER
Nasrallah’s cousin and head of the Executive Council, has become the new Hezbollah leader. Known for his strong ties to Iran and key roles in Hezbollah’s Shura and Jihadi councils, he has been a prominent figure since the 1990s. pic.twitter.com/zYh4gCV7Tz
— Muhammad Otweyo (@M_otweyo) September 28, 2024
Signified by his black turban, Safieddine holds the title of Sayyed, marking him as a descendant of the Prophet Mohammed. On the contrary to his cousin Nasrallah, Safieddine has participated in political and religious events openly in recent years.
However, there are rumours that Safieddine was also killed in the Israeli airstrikes. These rumours are yet to be confirmed by official sources.
Hezbollah originated during the Lebanese civil war in 1982, following Israel’s siege of Beirut. It was established with the backing of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and joined the “resistance” force, fighting against Israeli forces that occupied southern Lebanon until 2000.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Al Jazeera reported that the assassination of Nasrallah created a leadership void in Hezbollah. Safieddine, with his extensive experience and public presence, is positioned to maintain the group’s aggressive posture amid ongoing Israeli threats. (Read more)
- The Economic Times reported that Safieddine’s ascent as Hezbollah’s new face reflects a strategic choice aimed at sustaining military operations and political influence. His rhetoric emphasises solidarity with Palestinian fighters against Israel. (Read more)
- Hindustan Times reveals that Hashem Safieddine emerged as a likely successor to Hassan Nasrallah, leveraging familial ties and strong Iranian connections. His leadership could signify continuity in Hezbollah’s militant stance against Israel. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Hashem Safieddine?
Hashem Safieddine is a senior Hezbollah leader and cousin of slain leader Hassan Nasrallah.
Why is Hashem Safieddine considered the likely successor to Hassan Nasrallah?
Safieddine is a prominent figure with strong ties to Iran and is seen as the top contender.
What is Hashem Safieddine’s connection to Iran?
Safieddine studied in Qom, Iran, and his son is married to Qasem Soleimani’s daughter.
What is the significance of Safieddine’s black turban?
The black turban signifies that Safieddine is a descendant of the Prophet Mohammed.
How and when was Hezbollah formed?
Hezbollah was formed in 1982 during the Lebanese civil war with support from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.
