Sheikh Naeem Qasim is considered among the senior and experienced leaders of Hezbollah. His life’s journey began in the southern Lebanese town of Kafr Fala, where he received his primary education. He later completed his chemistry studies at Lebanon University and served in the teaching field for a long time.
Religious Education: Sheikh Naeem Qasim continued to pursue religious education and also participated in union formation for Muslim students.
Amal Tehreek: In 1970, he became part of Imam Musa Sadr’s Amal Movement, but broke away from the movement in 1979 after the Iranian Revolution.
Hezbollah: He became a part of Hezbollah in 1982 after it was formed against Israeli atrocities. He served as the Deputy Secretary General of Hezbollah since 1991.
Sheikh Naeem Qasim also served as Abbas Mousavi’s deputy before Hassan Nasrallah, who was martyred in an Israeli attack in 1992.
Recent events
The head of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, was martyred in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut on September 27, along with his daughter Zainab Nasrallah and several colleagues, after which the importance and responsibilities of Sheikh Naim Qasim increased.
Sheikh Naim Qassem’s life and career constitute an important chapter in Lebanon’s political history, particularly in the context of Hezbollah. His leadership and experience will be instrumental in the future direction of this organization.
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### Interview with a Hezbollah Observer: Insights on Sheikh Naeem Qasim’s Leadership
**Interviewer**: Today we have with us Dr. Samir Khalil, a Middle East political analyst, to discuss the recent rise of Sheikh Naeem Qasim as Hezbollah’s new leader.
**Interviewer**: Dr. Khalil, Sheikh Naeem Qasim has had a long and significant career within Hezbollah. What do you believe are the implications of his ascension to leadership following Hassan Nasrallah’s tragic passing?
**Dr. Khalil**: Sheikh Qasim’s extensive experience, especially as Deputy Secretary General since 1991, positions him well to lead Hezbollah during these tumultuous times. His understanding of both the political and military dimensions of the organization will be critical as they navigate the aftermath of Nasrallah’s death.
**Interviewer**: Given his background and past involvement with the Amal Movement, how do you think Qasim’s leadership style might differ from Nasrallah’s?
**Dr. Khalil**: While it’s hard to predict completely, Sheikh Qasim’s roots in political activism with the Amal Movement might signal a more politically engaged leadership. He could potentially focus on strengthening Hezbollah’s domestic political influence, especially in the context of Lebanon’s ongoing crises.
**Interviewer**: As we see the dynamics of power shift within Hezbollah, what questions do you think Lebanese citizens should be asking regarding this transition?
**Dr. Khalil**: Citizens should be concerned about the future direction of Hezbollah, especially in terms of its military strategies and political alliances. Will Qasim continue Nasrallah’s hardline approach toward Israel, or is there potential for a new strategy that emphasizes diplomacy? It also raises the question of how this leadership change will affect Hezbollah’s relationship with other Lebanese factions and regional powers.
**Interviewer**: This transition also poses risks, especially with the increased responsibilities resting on Qasim’s shoulders. What are the potential dangers he might face in his new role?
**Dr. Khalil**: Yes, significant risks loom. Sheikh Qasim must consolidate power within Hezbollah while managing external pressures, such as Israeli threats and internal Lebanese political rivalries. Factional dissent or a lack of unity could pose challenges to his regime, especially if faced with a significant military engagement.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Khalil.
**Interviewer**: It’s clear that Sheikh Naeem Qasim’s leadership could steer Hezbollah into new territories. What do our readers think will be the most significant changes under his rule? Will he maintain the militant ethos of Hezbollah, or do you foresee a shift in their tactical approach?
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**Debate Question**: In light of Sheikh Naeem Qasim’s ascension as the new leader of Hezbollah, do you believe that his leadership will maintain the organization’s militancy, or will we see a shift towards a more diplomatically inclined approach? Share your thoughts!
