Hezbollah promises to confront US, Israel over Khamenei killing | Israel-Iran conflict News
Hezbollah Remains Silent Following US-Israeli Attacks on Iran
Beirut — The Lebanese armed group Hezbollah has refrained from taking any action against Israeli or U.S. assets since a series of attacks targeted Iran on Saturday, resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other key Iranian leaders.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Hezbollah expressed its condolences for Khamenei, who was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation early that morning. The group condemned the strikes as a significant escalation, describing the targeted attacks as “the height of criminality.”
“Hezbollah will fulfill its duty in confronting aggression, confident in Allah’s victory, guidance, and support,” the statement read. “No matter the sacrifices, we will not abandon the field of honor and resistance,” it added, emphasizing its commitment to opposing what it termed “American tyranny and Zionist criminality.”
Despite these declarations, Hezbollah has yet to mobilize against Israel or U.S. interests in the region following the assaults. The group operates as a powerful military and political entity within Lebanon.
In response to the escalating situation, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun asserted on Sunday that decisions regarding war and peace rest solely with the Lebanese state. His comments came after an emergency meeting of the country’s Higher Defence Council.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also addressed the nation, advocating for prudence amidst the current geopolitical tensions. “I call on all Lebanese to act with wisdom and patriotism, placing Lebanon and its people’s interests above any other consideration,” he stated.
Lebanon is still navigating the aftermath of a protracted conflict with Israel, which concluded in November 2024. Tensions remain high, as Israel continues to conduct operations that violate the ceasefire agreement, with military outposts still established on Lebanese territory.
Thousands Mourn Khamenei in Beirut
In a show of solidarity, Hezbollah organized a gathering on Sunday in Beirut attended by thousands of supporters mourning Khamenei. As crowds chanted, “Death to America, death to Israel,” many expressed their grief at the loss of the Iranian leader.
Zainab al-Moussawi, a 23-year-old teacher, described Khamenei’s death as “very painful,” comparing it to the assassination of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in 2024. “It feels just like the martyrdom of the Sayyed,” she said.
Hezbollah also urged mosques across regions it influences to recite the Quran and organize mourning ceremonies to commemorate Khamenei’s passing.
