Born in 1960 into a struggling Shiite family, Nasrallah pursued theological studies and initially became involved in the Amal Movement, a Shiite political and paramilitary organization. He later helped found Hezbollah, which officially announced its creation in 1985 with an “open letter” identifying the United States and the Soviet Union as Islam’s main enemies. The letter also accused Israel of occupying Muslim lands and called for Israel’s “annihilation.”
Nasrallah was appointed secretary-general of Hezbollah in 1992 and spent the next few decades building it into one of the most powerful armed groups in the Middle East. Under his leadership, Hezbollah grew militarily and politically and became known for its staunch opposition to Israel and Western influence.
In 1997, the United States designated Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, but Nasrallah remained a highly controversial figure on the world stage throughout his tenure.
Who will be Hassan Nasrallah’s successor?
Following Nasrallah’s death, Hezbollah now faces the major challenge of electing a new leader. The decision would require the approval of Hezbollah members in Lebanon as well as Iran’s powerful allies. According to reports, Nasrallah’s cousin Hashem Saffieddin, who oversees Hezbollah’s political affairs, could be his successor. However, Saffieddin himself is a controversial figure, having been designated as a terrorist by the US State Department in 2017.
Regional impact of Nasrallah’s death
Nasrallah’s death heightened tensions in the region. The Israeli military is building up its forces in preparation for possible retaliatory action by Hezbollah, particularly along the Israel-Lebanon border. Hezbollah has already responded to recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Beirut and the Bekaa Valley by launching projectiles into northern and central Israel. The ongoing conflict has killed at least 720 people and further destabilized the region, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. Mr Nasrallah’s death is expected to worsen an already volatile situation, with fears that wider conflict could loom.
