Sheikh Naim Qassem Becomes Hezbollah’s New Secretary – Following the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah on September 27 by Israel, Hezbollah appointed Sheikh Naim Qassem as its new secretary-general. Qassem, a lifelong Shia activist and former deputy, has been a leading figure in Hezbollah since the organization’s early days. His election as leader marks a new phase for Hezbollah amidst increasing conflicts with Israel and internal shifts.
Sheikh Naim Qassem’s Background in Shia Activism
Early Life and Activism
Born in 1953 in Beirut, Sheikh Naim Qassem joined Shia political movements in the 1970s. He initially supported the Movement of the Dispossessed and later became a founding cleric of Hezbollah following the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon. With over 40 years of dedication, Qassem is one of the most seasoned figures within Hezbollah, advising leaders and managing key responsibilities.
Journey Within Hezbollah
Qassem became the deputy secretary-general in 1991 under Abbas al-Musawi. When al-Musawi was killed in 1992, Qassem was expected to lead; however, Hassan Nasrallah was chosen instead. Since then, Qassem worked as Nasrallah’s second-in-command, overseeing Hezbollah’s political and educational branches. His promotion after Nasrallah’s death highlights his long-standing loyalty and readiness to continue Hezbollah’s direction.
Hezbollah Key Figures
| Position | Leader | Notes |
| Secretary-General | Sheikh Naim Qassem | Recently appointed leader |
| Deputy Secretary | Hashem Safieddine | Potential successor |
| Head of Shura | Multiple figures | Oversees decisions and strategy |
Hezbollah’s Structure and Role in Lebanon
Hezbollah operates through a layered structure with roles that include:
- Military Wing: Known as the “Islamic Resistance,” this branch focuses on defense, mainly against Israeli forces.
- Political Wing: Hezbollah holds seats in Lebanon’s Parliament, representing Shia interests and forming alliances.
- Social Services: Provides healthcare, education, and infrastructure, particularly benefiting Lebanon’s Shia community.
Qassem’s appointment underscores Hezbollah’s commitment to its long-standing objectives, including military resistance against Israel, political representation, and supporting Shia communities.
Sheikh Naim Qassem Becomes Hezbollah’s New Secretary – Summary
- Hezbollah’s Leadership Transition: Sheikh Naim Qassem elected as Hezbollah’s secretary-general after Nasrallah’s assassination.
- Background and Activism: Qassem is a founding cleric of Hezbollah with deep roots in Shia activism.
- Hezbollah Structure: Maintains a military, political, and social services structure.
- Qassem’s Goals: Continues Hezbollah’s commitment to resistance against Israel and Shia empowerment in Lebanon.
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FAQs on Sheikh Naim Qassem Becomes Hezbollah’s New Secretary
Sheikh Naim Qassem Becomes Hezbollah’s New Secretary- general, succeeding Hassan Nasrallah
Qassem was appointed after Nasrallah’s assassination on September 27 by Israeli forces.
Qassem aims to maintain Hezbollah’s resistance against Israel and empower Lebanon’s Shia population
Hezbollah is structured into military, political, and social services wings, with decisions guided by the Shura Council.
The Shura Council is responsible for key political decisions and leadership roles in Hezbollah
Hezbollah offers healthcare, education, and other services to support Shia communities, especially in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah opposes Israeli influence in Lebanon and Palestine, aiming to protect Lebanese sovereignty
