Hezbollah's New Leadership: Sheikh Naim Qassem's Rise

Sheikh Naim Qassem, a longstanding senior figure in Hezbollah, has been elected head of the group following the recent death of their former leader. Qassem emphasized the conflict's intensity with Israel, but supported ceasefire efforts by parliament speaker Nabih Berri. His position reflects Hezbollah’s evolving leadership dynamics amid enduring regional tensions.

Sheikh Naim Qassem has been chosen as the new head of Hezbollah, a prominent Lebanese armed group, following his lengthy tenure as a senior figure within the Iran-backed movement.

In a televised address from an undisclosed location, Qassem highlighted the severity of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, maintaining that Hezbollah would not back down first despite significant Israeli assaults.

Nonetheless, he voiced support for a ceasefire initiative led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, signaling a shift in Hezbollah's strategic approach by not insisting on a Gaza truce as a prerequisite.

(With inputs from agencies.)