Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, is set to hold a grand and sprawling funeral to honor its assassinated leader, Hassan Nasrallah. This event, which is expected to draw tens of thousands of individuals from Lebanon and the region, including Iranian dignitaries, is anticipated to revive Hezbollah’s image in Lebanon, particularly in light of the group’s recent conflict with Israel. The ceremony will begin at Lebanon’s largest sports stadium, which has been adorned with massive posters of Nasrallah and slogans promoting continued resistance against Israel.

Following the funeral service, Nasrallah will be buried at a nearby site that will be transformed into a holy shrine. Hezbollah officials have emphasized that the event is not just a mourning period but a day of loyalty and a renewal of commitments to the group’s mission. The group’s political and military influence in Lebanon has been challenged in recent months. The loss of its leader and its weakened position after the latest conflict with Israel have led to a shift in the group’s fortunes within Lebanon.

The funeral also serves as an opportunity for Hezbollah to reassert its influence amidst growing opposition within Lebanon and to remind its allies and adversaries that the group remains resilient. Despite these challenges, which include a loss of military and political ground and a shattered public image, Hezbollah is utilizing Nasrallah’s death as a rallying point for its supporters. The group’s capacity to adapt and sustain itself remains a potent force within the region.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/23/world/middleeast/hezbollah-nasrallah-funeral-lebanon.html