Hezbollah Plans Grand Funeral for Hassan Nasrallah
Hezbollah is preparing to hold a significant and politically charged funeral for its former Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on September 27, 2023. The announcement came on the first day of a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, which went into effect at 4:00 a.m. Beirut time on November 27, 2024. Mahmoud Qamati, deputy head of Hezbollah's political council, stated that the funeral had been postponed to ensure it would be worthy of Nasrallah's legacy and martyrdom.
Background of the Conflict
Nasrallah's death occurred during a series of Israeli raids that targeted Hezbollah's central command in the southern suburbs of Beirut, dropping approximately 85 bunker-busting bombs. His assassination was part of a broader conflict that escalated significantly since October 8, 2023, leading to widespread displacement and destruction in both Lebanon and Israel. The Israeli military also targeted Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, head of Hezbollah's executive council, just days after Nasrallah's death.
Funeral Preparations and Community Response
Preparations for the funeral are reportedly complete, with officials promising a grand procession to honor Nasrallah's contributions to the Shiite community and Hezbollah. Ibrahim al-Moussawi, a spokesperson for the group, indicated that the event would be a powerful demonstration of popular support. Initially, Nasrallah was buried in a secret location due to fears of further Israeli attacks during the funeral. Now, with the ceasefire in place, Hezbollah hopes to hold a public ceremony that reflects the significance of Nasrallah's leadership and the ongoing struggle against Israeli aggression.
