Beirut, Lebanon

Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah on Saturday (Sep 28) confirmed that its leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed on Friday in Israeli strikes on Beirut. Nasrallah’s death has now raised questions about the future leadership of the Lebanon-based militant group. Now, it’s being speculated that Nasrallah’s cousin Hashem Safieddine may take the reins of the group, who has already been on the Hezbollah’s Jihad Council. Let’s know more about the prominent cleric of the militant group.

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Who is Hashem Safieddine?

Hashem Safieddine has been involved for years in Hezbollah’s political affairs. He was also considered very close to now-dead former Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani, whose daughter had married Safieddine’s son back in 2020.

Hashem Safieddine joined the group in 1994 and joined the Majlis Al Shura, the group’s highest decision-making body, within a year.

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Also read: Israelis call Hezbollah chief's death 'absolutely fantastic news'

He is known for his black turban and as someone who touts himself as a close descendant of the Prophet Muhammad.

Safieddine is considered one of the top three leaders of the group, alongside Nasrallah and Naim Qassem.

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Designated as terrorist by US in 2018

The US State Department had designated Hashem Safieddine as a terrorist in 2017 for his alleged involvement in Hezbollah’s strategic planning and financial operations for over three decades.

Since he is well-versed in the group’s functioning and has been closely associated with the group for the last 30 years, he is considered as the best choice for Hezbollah’s next leader.

Also read: West Asia crisis: Hezbollah confirms leader Hassan Nasrallah's death in IDF strikes on Beirut

Iran, which is Hezbollah’s primary backer, had reportedly promoted him as a potential future leader of the organisation in 2006 itself. In 2010, he was also appointed military commander of Southern Lebanon in 2010—a key region in Hezbollah’s long-standing conflict with Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

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