Massive Turnout at Hezbollah Leader Nasrallah’s Funeral: Thousands Gather to Honor His Legacy Five Months After His Death

In Beirut, a massive crowd gathered on Sunday for the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, the former leader of Hezbollah, who was killed nearly five months ago in an Israeli airstrike. Estimates suggest that around 450,000 people filled the stadium and surrounding streets to pay their respects.

Nasrallah, who had led Hezbollah for over 30 years, played a crucial role in shaping the group into a significant player in the Middle East. His leadership helped establish Hezbollah as a formidable political and military force backed by Iran. He was well-respected among various Iran-affiliated factions across the region.

His influence peaked during the 2006 conflict with Israel, where Hezbollah famously fought to a standstill. However, the group’s involvement in the Syrian civil war to support President Bashar Assad tarnished its image in many parts of the Arab world.

Hezbollah encouraged its supporters to attend the funeral to showcase its enduring strength despite facing significant losses during a recent conflict with Israel. Lawmaker Ali Fayyad emphasized that the large turnout demonstrated Hezbollah’s continued popularity among the Lebanese people.

Sahar al-Attar, one mourner, expressed her dedication, stating, “We would have come even under bullets.” Nasrallah was laid to rest alongside his cousin and successor, Hashem Safieddine, who was also killed in an Israeli strike shortly after. Both had been buried in undisclosed locations before the ceremony.

As the coffins were displayed, mourners threw flowers and clothing, hoping for a blessing from the deceased leaders. Outside the stadium, large screens displayed messages reinforcing commitment to the group’s cause.

Among the attendees were over 800 international officials from 65 countries, including Iranian parliament members and Lebanese leaders. Activists from various nations, including Ireland, showed their support as well. One Irish activist even compared Nasrallah to Michael Collins, an early 20th-century revolutionary.

During the event, the skies above Beirut were filled with Israeli fighter jets, a reminder of the ongoing tensions. People chanted anti-Israel slogans, reflecting their fierce opposition to perceived threats.

Despite recent challenges, including a ceasefire agreement that restricts Hezbollah’s military presence, the group’s leadership remains resolute. Current Secretary-General Naim Kassem, speaking via video during the funeral, reaffirmed Hezbollah’s strength and commitment to resistance against Israel.

Kassem insisted that Hezbollah would not allow external forces to dictate Lebanon’s future, emphasizing both unity and determination as the group faces a turbulent geopolitical landscape.