Iran's 'Reclusive' Supreme Leader Mojtaba Sends Public Letter to Hezbollah

Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to continuing support for the Lebanon-based pro-Iranian militant group Hezbollah.

In a letter addressed to Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem, commanders, and fighters, Mojtaba praised Hezbollah's "patience and steadfastness," stating that the group stands at the forefront of the resistance against Israel and its supporters.

He also expressed gratitude to the Lebanese people who have supported Hezbollah, particularly residents of southern Lebanon.

Mojtaba stated that protecting Hezbollah is one of the strategic policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

He also argued that Lebanon's territorial integrity and a "complete and unconditional" halt to Israeli attacks are Iran's core conditions in any agreement to end the conflict.

Additionally, criticizing the United States and Israel for committing oppression and injustice, he asserted that "jihad (holy war) and resistance" are the only remaining paths.

This letter has drawn attention as it marks a public statement by Mojtaba, who has maintained a reclusive path since taking office as Supreme Leader—having notably been absent from the funeral of his father, former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia political party and militant group, widely considered Iran's most powerful and influential proxy force in the Middle East.

With full backing from Iran, Hezbollah was once dubbed "the world's strongest irregular army," boasting over 100,000 fighters and nearly 150,000 rockets and missiles.

However, it is assessed to have suffered a significant weakening of its military capabilities after losing key leadership and forces in successive clashes with Israel following the outbreak of the Gaza war.

The United States and Israel, which are at war with Iran, are demanding Hezbollah's disarmament.

(Photo provided by the Office of the Supreme Leader of Iran, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.