Iran Rebukes Hezbollah's Na'im Qassem After Tunnel Blast
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has expressed deep dissatisfaction with Hezbollah Secretary-General Na'im Qassem's performance, leading to a significant reduction in his authority, according to a report by the Lebanese newspaper Al-Watan. This development follows the destruction of a major underground tunnel complex at the Ali Taher ridge, which inflicted a severe strategic blow on Hezbollah.
Iranian official Hussein Ta'eb reportedly conveyed a stern message to Qassem, highlighting dissatisfaction with his handling of sensitive issues. Consequently, Qassem's decision-making powers have been curtailed, and Revolutionary Guard official Ali al-Abbas has been appointed to play a central role in the organization's strategic planning and operational decisions. This move signifies a direct increase in Iran's control over Hezbollah's leadership.
The Lebanese newspaper, which is identified with the bloc opposing Hezbollah, cited sources indicating that the sharp criticism and subsequent power reduction stem from a series of operational failures and recent escalations in southern Lebanon, most notably the destruction of the Ali Taher tunnel network. This underground complex, built over years with Iranian funding and guidance, served as a command center and weapons storage facility.
Western diplomatic sources suggested that Ta'eb views Qassem as incapable of filling the leadership void left by Hassan Nasrallah. Following the 2024 ceasefire, Iran reportedly dispatched approximately 100 officers to Lebanon to oversee training, rearmament, and the development of a more decentralized fighting force. For Tehran, Hezbollah's arsenal and infrastructure are considered a cornerstone of Iran's regional deterrence strategy.
The appointment of Revolutionary Guard figures like al-Abbas to have direct decision-making power within Hezbollah indicates Iran's intention to take direct command, moving away from relying solely on Hezbollah's leadership judgment. This shift reflects Iran's concern over losing further strategic assets and its desire for closer oversight of the organization's activities.
