Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, Naeem Qassem, stated the group would “fulfill its duty in confronting the aggression” following the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike. The statement, issued Sunday, came as Hezbollah offered condolences to “the Islamic nation” and the Iranian people, describing Khamenei as a “religious scholar and divine leader” and his assassination as “a disgrace on the forehead of humanity.”
Qassem’s declaration has raised concerns of potential retaliatory attacks against Israel, potentially drawing Lebanon into a wider conflict. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned against any “adventures” that could threaten the country’s security, appealing for wisdom and national unity amidst the escalating regional tensions. Salam affirmed Lebanon would not accept being drawn into actions jeopardizing its stability and announced the government was undertaking “all necessary diplomatic contacts” to mitigate the risk of Lebanon becoming embroiled in the conflict.
Prior to the announcement of Khamenei’s death, a Hezbollah official had indicated to France Press that the group did not intend to intervene militarily should the United States launch “limited” strikes against Iran. However, the official cautioned that targeting the Supreme Leader would constitute a “red line.”
The assassination of Khamenei has prompted questions regarding the response of Iran’s allies in the region, given the close relationship between Hezbollah and the Islamic Republic. Khamenei was considered a key figure in the 1979 revolution and a significant religious authority for the Shia community.
Following the announcement of Khamenei’s death, Hezbollah remained largely silent regarding any potential actions. Instead, the group called for popular mobilization, according to reports. The Iranian provisional leadership council convened its second meeting since its formation, though details of the discussions remain undisclosed.
News of Khamenei’s death also sparked protests in India, indicating the broader regional impact of the event. The statement from Qassem has reportedly caused anxiety within Lebanon, according to Sky News Arabia.
