Zarif: Nasrallah’s Rational Leadership and Insight into Lebanon’s National Interests
In a heartfelt tribute, Iran’s Vice-President for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad-Javad Zarif, recently reflected on the impactful legacy of the late Hezbollah leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Recognized for his rational approach and courage, Nasrallah was a pivotal figure who understood the vital interests of both the Lebanese people and the broader Arab and Islamic communities.
During a special program hosted by IRNA, Zarif expressed his admiration for Nasrallah, who tragically lost his life in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut last September. He stated, “Nasrallah was not an irrational or radical individual at all. He pursued the interests of the people of Lebanon, the Arab and Islamic world with great planning and precision.”
Zarif went on to commend Nasrallah’s unwavering courage, stating, “Martyr Nasrallah never gave in to pressure and bullying, and always chose the most logical solution.” This resilience allowed Hezbollah to navigate the complex political landscape of Lebanon effectively.
Key points highlighted by Zarif about Nasrallah’s leadership include:
- Rational Decision-Making: Zarif emphasized that Nasrallah’s actions were driven by logic, which greatly benefited Lebanon’s political stability.
- Support for the JCPOA: Nasrallah’s endorsement of the Iranian nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is cited as evidence of his moderate approach.
- Community Engagement: Under Nasrallah’s guidance, Hezbollah successfully addressed non-military issues, effectively winning “hearts and minds” within Lebanon and beyond.
Reflecting on the recent funeral procession in Beirut, Zarif noted the immense turnout, which saw hundreds of thousands of mourners from across Lebanon and the region. He remarked that this overwhelming support underscores the strong allegiance to Hezbollah’s ideology and the legacy of its late secretary general.