Hezbollah Appoints Naim Kassem as New Leader After Nasrallah's Death

Hezbollah has appointed Naim Kassem as its new leader following the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike. Kassem, a founding member of the group and previously Nasrallah's deputy, has vowed to continue his predecessor's policies. The appointment signals Hezbollah's resilience amidst international tensions.

Hezbollah announced on Tuesday the appointment of cleric Naim Kassem as its new leader following the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike. The election of Kassem, 71, by Hezbollah's Shura Council aims to continue Nasrallah's policies "until victory is achieved," as he becomes the group's new secretary-general.

Kassem, a founding member of Hezbollah, has been a public figure within the organization for decades, serving as Nasrallah's deputy. Despite his lacking oratory skills, Kassem's appointment was expected, reinforcing Hezbollah's autonomous image, despite reports of Iranian influence, according to Lebanese analyst Qassim Qassir.

The appointment occurs in a climate of heightened conflict, with Hezbollah's actions complementing Hamas-led offensives against Israel. Kassem's leadership marks a critical juncture as Hezbollah contends with retaliatory Israeli strikes in Lebanon, amid a complex geopolitical landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)