The new leader of Hezbollah is Naim Qassem. Here’s what we know about him.
Naim Qassem has been named as the new boss of Hezbollah. Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike more than a month ago. The group is facing big problems right now because of tensions and conflicts in the region, so Qassem’s appointment comes at a very important time.
What does Naim Qassem do?
Naim Qassem is a Shiite teacher from the town of Kfar Kila in the southern part of Lebanon. He is 71 years old. Since 1991, he has been deputy secretary-general of Hezbollah and has been a very important leader in the group.
History and Work Experience
Qassem was a chemistry teacher for six years before he joined Hezbollah. He was a part of the Movement of the Dispossessed, a political group that later changed its name to the Shiite Amal movement. Qassem has been with Hezbollah since the group’s start in 1982.
Participation of Hezbollah
Qassem has been the deputy secretary-general of Hezbollah for seven times in a row. He has played a big role in making the organization’s rules and plans.
Style of Leadership
Analysts say Qassem’s leadership might be different from Nasrallah’s. He probably won’t be a strict leader. Instead, he will help bring together the different voices in the group. This change is partly because of the restricted choices that have been made since Israel attacked Hezbollah’s leadership.
Problems to Come
As the new boss of Hezbollah, Qassem has to deal with a lot of problems, such as
- The Israeli military operation in southern Lebanon got stronger
- Missiles became less powerful
- Top leaders were killed and thousands of troops were hurt.
Answer to Appointment
When asked about Qassem’s position, Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant said, “Temporary appointment.” “Not for long.”
Expert Thoughts
Mohanad Hage Ali, the deputy director for research at the Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center, said that Qassem was a “no-brainer choice” because he already knew the group and had experience working there.
The Future of Hezbollah
During times of conflict and tension in the area, Qassem’s leadership will determine the direction of Hezbollah. He is still fully committed to fighting the Israeli rule and helping the Palestinian people.
Important things to know about Naim Qassem:
Shiite cleric from the village of Kfar Kila in southern Lebanon, 71 years old; active in Hezbollah as a founding member in 1982 and as a deputy secretary-general since 1991; worked as a chemistry teacher for six years; wrote “Hezbollah: The Story from Within” in 2015; expected to be a leader who brings together different voices within the organization rather than a dictator
Effects on the Dynamic of the Region
The selection of Qassem could have big effects on how things work in the region:
- The role of Iran in Lebanon
- Trouble between Israel and Hezbollah
- Conflict between Israel and Palestine
In conclusion
The new head of Hezbollah is Naim Qassem. This is the start of a new era for the group. His style of leadership and dedication to Hezbollah’s core values will determine the group’s future as he faces the difficulties ahead.
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