As Israel continues its airstrikes, the date of Nasrallah’s funeral – which is expected to be a palanquin – has not been announced
Three days of mourning have been declared in Lebanon for the death of Hezbollah’s powerful leader Hassan Nasrallah last Friday in an Israeli raid codenamed “New Order” on the organization’s headquarters in Beirut.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said official mourning would begin on Monday, with flags flying at half-mast on public buildings.
Public offices will also be closed on the day of Nasrallah’s funeral, for which Hezbollah has yet to announce a date.
As Israel continues its airstrikes on Beirut and the Bekaa Valley unabated, Nasrallah’s funeral – expected to be palatial – is raising security concerns for the Lebanese government and Hezbollah.
Who is his most likely replacement?
The spotlight is now on Hashem Safieddine, cousin of the late leader and no.2 in the organization’s leadership, who is considered the top commander to take Nasrallah’s place.
Safieddine is also a cleric – he wears the black turban that suggests descent from Islam’s prophet Muhammad – and a sworn enemy of Israel.
He serves as the head of Hezbollah’s executive council and is widely seen as its successor.
The US State Department designated him a terrorist in 2017.
Last June – after the assassination of another Hezbollah commander – he threatened a major escalation against Israel.
Information indicates that Safieddine is already in contact with Hezbollah officials and the organization’s political and military departments, while in the next few days – after Nasrallah’s funeral – it may be announced that he is at the helm of the organization.
Source :Skai
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