One Year After Nasrallah’s Martyrdom: Hezbollah Faces Challenges but Remains a Regional Power

Kokcha News Agency – Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, known as the “Sayyed of Resistance,” was not only a prominent religious figure but also an influential politician and a capable leader of Hezbollah. From the early 1990s until his martyrdom in September 2024, Nasrallah transformed Hezbollah into a major regional power, achieving significant victories such as the liberation of southern Lebanon in 2000 and the 33-day war in 2006.

Following Nasrallah’s martyrdom on September 27, 2024, Lebanon has witnessed significant political, social, and military shifts. Hezbollah, now under the leadership of Sheikh Naim Qassem, has demonstrated resilience in the face of challenges. Shortly after Nasrallah’s death, Israel launched an unprecedented 57-day attack on southern Lebanon, which began on October 1, 2024. Despite a ceasefire agreement on November 27, 2024, the attacks continued, reflecting ongoing tensions.

Hezbollah is currently facing internal pressures from the Lebanese government, which is seen as pro-Western, and external pressures from regional Arab states. The group has also been targeted by the Syrian regime under Al-Houlani, which seeks to weaken Hezbollah’s influence. Despite these challenges, Hezbollah remains a formidable force, with a strong social and political base in Lebanon.

Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, recently addressed these challenges, stating that disarming Hezbollah would mean capitulating to Israeli demands. Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah is mobilizing to counter any plans that benefit Israel, calling the conflict an existential battle. He also criticized the Lebanese government for prioritizing disarmament over national sovereignty, warning that such actions would lead to the downfall of all.

Recent events, including massive public gatherings commemorating Nasrallah’s martyrdom and Hezbollah’s significant victories in municipal elections, underscore the group’s popular support in Lebanon. Despite Israeli attacks and internal sabotage, Hezbollah appears to be strengthening its military and political position rather than weakening.