Hezbollah Vows to Retain Weapons on Anniversary of Hassan Nasrallah’s Killing

Hezbollah has reiterated its refusal to be disarmed, one year after the assassination of its former leader, Hassan Nasrallah, by an Israeli airstrike on September 27, 2024. Speaking at commemorative events in Beirut, Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem emphasized the group’s commitment to maintaining its weapons and preparing for martyrdom.

The anniversary observances began on Thursday with the projection of Nasrallah and second-in-command Hashem Safieddine’s images onto the iconic Raouche rock, despite lacking government authorization. Tens of thousands of supporters gathered at Nasrallah’s mausoleum, waving Hezbollah, Lebanese, Palestinian, and Iranian flags, chanting anti-Israel and anti-U.S. slogans, and listening to religious and partisan songs. Iranian security chief Ali Larijani attended the events, underscoring Tehran’s backing.

Supporters expressed determination to retain their weapons. Wisam Hodroj, a 51-year-old visitor from Iraq, stated, “Today, we have a new cause—we will not compromise on our weapons.” University student Ali Jaafar added, “Handing over the weapons is the dream of internal and external enemies—it will remain just a dream.”

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for unity, stating that Lebanon’s salvation lies in “one unified state, one army, and constitutional institutions that protect sovereignty and uphold dignity.” Meanwhile, Israel continues to maintain troops at border points and conducts regular strikes, keeping pressure on Hezbollah and Lebanon to enforce disarmament. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Lebanon’s efforts but emphasized that “more than words” are required.

Hezbollah remains Lebanon’s only major armed group legally permitted to maintain its arsenal, originally justified by resistance against Israeli occupation. The group’s strongholds lie in Shiite southern and eastern Lebanon and southern Beirut. Following escalations in October 2023, Hezbollah supported Hamas in Gaza, leading to a full-scale war with Israel in September 2024, concluded by a ceasefire two months later.

Despite international and domestic pressure, Hezbollah’s leadership and supporters remain resolute in preserving the group’s military capabilities, signaling ongoing tension in Lebanon’s political and security landscape.