Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem has reportedly fled Lebanon for Tehran as Israeli military operations intensify against the group, leading to significant casualties among its leadership, including the death of chief Hassan Nasrallah.
According to a report from UAE-based Erem News, an Iranian source revealed that Qassem departed Lebanon on an Iranian aircraft approximately a week ago. His evacuation was reportedly ordered by Iranian leaders concerned for his safety amid fears of assassination. Notably, he utilized the same plane that carried Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Despite his relocation, Qassem managed to deliver three speeches following Nasrallah’s death, two were broadcast from Beirut, while the third was recorded in Tehran.
Israel has been resolute in its campaign against Hezbollah, Hamas, and other Iranian-affiliated militias, successfully eliminating key leaders from both factions. Notable figures recently killed include Fuad Shukr, Ali Karaki, Nabil Kaouk, and Mohammed Srur.
In a separate military action, the Israeli Air Force conducted strikes on a Hezbollah command center and an underground weapons facility in Beirut. Lebanese state media confirmed multiple strikes in Hezbollah’s southern stronghold of Dahiyeh, underscoring the escalating conflict in the region.