Speech by Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem during the funeral of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, delivered before a crowd of over one million attendees on February 23, 2025.

Introduction

Nasrallah and Safieddine’s journey

1/ What did Hezbollah face?

2/ Where does Hezbollah stand?

3/ The future of the Resistance

4/ What are Hezbollah’s principles?

Conclusion

Source: Al-Manar

Translation: resistancenews.org

  • Introduction

Peace be upon you, honorable and majestic assembly. Peace be upon you, those gathered on this solemn occasion to bid farewell to the Master of the nation’s martyrs, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah—may God be satisfied with him—and his companion, Sayyed Hashim Safieddine—may God be satisfied with him. Peace be upon you, delegations from every corner of the world, and peace be upon you, the proud Lebanese people, with all your sects, denominations, parties and forces.

Peace be upon the representative of the President of the Lebanese Republic, General Joseph Aoun. Peace be upon our big brother, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Nabih Berri, both in person and by proxy. And peace be upon the representative of the Lebanese Prime Minister, Mr. Nawaf Salam, Dr. Mohammad Haidar.

O proud people,

I speak to you on behalf of my brother, my beloved, and my guide, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Peace be upon you, the most honorable of people. Peace be upon you, the most loyal of people. Peace be upon you, the most generous of people. You who have held our heads high—let the seven heavens, the earth, and all within them bear witness: you remain steadfast in your pledge, and you stand with Nasrallah. May God’s peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you.

The Almighty says: “Among the believers are men who have remained true to their covenant with God; some of them have fulfilled their vow (martyrdom), and others await, without ever wavering.” (Quranic verse)

  • Nasrallah and Safieddine’s journey

Today, we bid farewell to an extraordinary, historic leader. Today, we bid farewell to a national, Arab, and Islamic leader—a beacon for all the free people of the world. Today, we bid farewell to our Master and beloved—the beloved of the mujahideen, the beloved of the people, the beloved of the poor and the downtrodden, the beloved of the oppressed across the earth, the beloved of the Palestinians. We bid farewell to the Master of the nation’s martyrs, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah—may God the Most High be pleased with him.

This man’s journey of faith began in his earliest years. Born in 1960, he traveled to Najaf al-Ashraf at the age of sixteen to study in its seminary under the blessing and supervision of the martyred Imam Sayyed Mohammad Baqir al-Sadr, may God have mercy on him, and under the care of Sayyed Abbas al-Mousawi, may God have mercy on him. After two years, he returned to Baalbek in 1978 due to the circumstances in Iraq, accompanied by his teacher, Sayyed Abbas.

There, he continued his studies in the seminary and worked under the banner of Imam Musa al-Sadr, the absent Imam—may God return him and his two companions safely. He engaged in all cultural and social fields until 1982, when Hezbollah was founded. From the very beginning, he was a central figure in the party, eventually assuming the position of Head of the Executive Council in the first Shura of which he was a member in 1989. He later became Secretary-General following the martyrdom of Sayyed Abbas on February 16, 1992, and remained in this role until his own martyrdom on September 27, 2024.

This dear man led the Resistance to the (Muslim) Nation, and he led the Nation to the Resistance—until the two became inseparable, one heart beating as both. With him, they fought, they listened, and they strove to act upon his counsel and example.

This great man was consumed by Islam, consumed by love for Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, consumed by devotion to the wilaya (guidance of the Imams). He was sincere, loyal, compassionate, generous, humble, resolute, courageous, wise, and strategic. He was the beloved of the resistance, a man who trusted and believed in people. He loved the people, and they loved him in return. He was a leader of minds and hearts. His compass always pointed to Palestine and Al-Quds (Jerusalem), and he played a significant role in keeping this cause alive.

He insisted on remaining in the Resistance’s Operations Room, personally overseeing the situation with the mujahideen. He was martyred in the advanced position. I miss you, my master, as do all who love you. But you remain with us—in your path, your teachings, your resistance, your itinerary, and your jihad.

The Almighty says: “Do not say of those who are slain in the way of God that they are dead. Rather, they are alive, though you do not perceive it.” (Quranic verse)

We will safeguard the trust. We will walk this path. We will uphold your will, the will of Sayyed Abbas, and the will of Sayyed Hashim. You declared on February 18 (1992), just two days after Sayyed Abbas’ martyrdom: “We will complete this path. Even if we are all killed, even if our homes are destroyed upon our heads, we will never abandon the choice of Resistance.”

My master, the one whom you cherished and obeyed in devotion, Imam Khamenei (may his shadow endure) told us: “Hezbollah in Lebanon has lost a leader without equal, but the blessings of his leadership and jihad over decades will never cease.”

Here, in this gathering, I want to pledge my allegiance to this path, and your audience, your people, wish to pledge their allegiance to this path. I reflected: Should we swear an oath, or is it enough to declare our covenant and allegiance? I realized that if we declare the covenant and remain steadfast upon it, we will reach our goal.

I will say a phrase for us to repeat three times, with fists raised:

“We are on the covenant, o Nasrallah!”

(Crowd: “We are on the covenant, o Nasrallah!)

Today, we bid farewell to the Secretary General, Sayyed Hashim Safieddine, may God have mercy on him. He was a pure-hearted man, a beloved companion, a steadfast supporter, and a pillar of strength. We miss you, Sayyed, as a guiding light for our cause, but you remain within us through your path and your generosity.

Born in 1962, he was present at the founding in 1982. That same year, he traveled to the holy city of Qom to pursue religious studies, returning to Lebanon periodically to join the mujahideen. In 1991, he assumed command of the southern region, entered the Shura Council in 1994, and led the Executive Council until he was martyred as Secretary General—only six days after succeeding his beloved Sayyed Hassan, may God have mercy on him.

He dedicated himself to educational, cultural, and social institutions and worked tirelessly across fields that serve the people. He stood by the mujahideen, ensuring their readiness, and was a steadfast support to Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, may God have mercy on him. We miss you, Sayyed, just as we miss Sayyed Hassan, may God have mercy on him.

Out of loyalty, I must also honor the memory of several officials who were martyred in the two headquarters: the headquarters of His Eminence Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and the headquarters of His Eminence Sayyed Hashim Safieddine.

Those martyred at the headquarters of His Eminence Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the master of the Nation’s martyrs:

  • Hajj Abbas, Brigadier General Abbas Nil Farroshan, a brigadier general in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, whose blood merged with the blood of the Resistance martyrs on the road to Palestine
  • Hajj Abu al-Fadl Ali Abdel-Moneim Karaki
  • Hajj Abu Hassan Ammar Ali Nayef Ayoub
  • Hajj Abdel-Amir Muhammad Siblini
  • Hajj Nabil Ibrahim Hussein Jazini
  • Hajj Jihad Samir Tawfiq Deeb
  • Dr. Gharib Hassan Muhammad Amin Salman
  • Hajj Hassan Muhammad Habib Khairuddin

Those martyred alongside Sayyed Hashim Safieddine, may God have mercy on him, include :

  • Hajj Murtada Hussein Ali Hazini
  • Hajj Adel Ali Muhammad Bahsoun
  • Brother Maher Mahmoud Muhammad Shahin

We extend our deepest condolences and blessings to the families of the martyrs, to the families of these two revered Sayyeds, to all martyrs on the path to Jerusalem, and to all the martyrs of the Resistance. Congratulations to all who love and belong to Palestine, to those who hold Palestine as their spiritual compass. This movement is the movement of all martyrs—a movement of strength and life.

“And do not think of those who were killed in the way of God as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision.” (Quranic verse)

The martyred Hezbollah commanders who fell in the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood

Here, we must also salute the wounded, who are living martyrs, and the prisoners, to whom we say: We will not abandon you to the Zionists. Your release is a duty, and we will take every necessary measure and exert every pressure to secure your freedom.

As for you, this great assembly, I know that His Eminence lives in your hearts and minds, just as he does in the hearts of millions worldwide who witness this gathering and long to be here with you. This huge crowd—unmatched in size, and I believe unprecedented in the history of Lebanon—stands as a testament to loyalty. You are the loyal people. You are the generous people. You are the people who endure.

Today, I will speak on four points:

  • 1/ What did Hezbollah face?

First: What did we face? We faced the battle of support. Supporting Gaza is an integral part of our belief in the Liberation of Palestine. The Israelis had planned to launch a war against Lebanon on October 11—four days later. Even if they did not carry out this war then, their intention to wage war on Lebanon remained, because they could not tolerate this great Resistance.

We stood against the Israeli entity and, behind it, the Great Tyrant—the United States of America—which has mobilized all its resources against Gaza, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, and Iran—against the Axis of Resistance that has united around Gaza and Palestine. The scale of their crimes is unprecedented, and their goal is to crush the Resistance in Gaza and Lebanon.

Moreover, the scale of sacrifices is unprecedented, matching the immense pressure we faced. Our steadfastness and continuity are also unparalleled—a significant achievement. We have reorganized, and our heroic resistance fighters remained steadfast along the borders, confronting 75,000 Israeli soldiers. They could not advance against the Resistance.

We used to hear their howls whenever there was news of a “security incident in the North”—proof of the steadfastness and sacrifices of the resistance fighters. Our men, our youth, our people sacrificed—women, children, and everyone. You, the people of the Resistance, are the bedrock of the earth and the life-giving rain of the sky, the resolve of (Imam) Hussein that keeps the banner aloft, and the stance of (his sister) Zainab that shakes the pillars of tyrants and oppressors. You are an undefeatable people. We will stand together, resist together, and remain together. We pledge together to remain steadfast in our pledge, o Nasrallah.

(Crowd: “We are on the covenant, o Nasrallah!)

The Resistance’s supporters and the Lebanese people united and became a model of solidarity. This crowd, praise be to God, is an expression of national unity, Arab unity, Islamic unity, and human unity around Palestine and the truth.

  • 2/ Where does Hezbollah stand?

Second, where do we stand? We accepted the enemy’s request for a ceasefire because neither the Resistance nor Lebanon has any interest in continuing asymmetrical fighting that inflicts damage without achieving political or field gains. At this stage, any continuation would mean nothing but killing and fighting without progress on the ground or in politics.

It is a position of strength for us to accept a ceasefire at this opportune moment—a moment which, had it extended by a month or two, would not have changed the outcome. We are now entering a new phase, one that requires different tools, methods, and modes of handling.

The most significant step we took was ensuring the State assumes its responsibilities after the Resistance prevented the enemy from invading or achieving its objectives. We fulfilled our part—now the responsibility lies with the State. We upheld our commitments, while Israel did not and will not.

We exercised patience to give the opportunity for Israel to withdraw through agreement and diplomacy, and we refrained from violating the ceasefire to avoid equating ourselves with them. Today, after the withdrawal deadline has passed, we are no longer facing mere Israeli violations—we are facing occupation and aggression. Whether one or five points, it is an occupation and an aggression.

Bombing Lebanese territory—no matter the justification—is aggression. Israel cannot continue its occupation and aggression. Know this: the Resistance is present, powerful in numbers, arms, and people.

We believe that ultimate victory is inevitable—an absolute victory. It may be delayed because only a few confront the enemy, but if everyone stood up, the equation would change. Wake up, you who sleep! The Resistance has offered a unique example, proving that we can stand firm against the Israeli entity and achieve resilience.

In any case, the divine law is clear: Israel oppresses, the US oppresses, and they persist in their oppression. The Almighty says: “And We destroyed the towns when they committed injustice, and We set for their destruction an appointed time.” (Quranic verse)

  • 3/ The future of the Resistance

Third, what about the future of the Resistance? Many people are lost and confused, thinking the Resistance has ended. No, my beloved, the Resistance is not over! The Resistance endures in its presence and readiness.

Resistance is a belief and a right—no one can take away that belief, and no one can strip us of that right. How could they, when we believe that Resistance is not merely a right but also a duty? Resistance is the lifeblood of free people striving for Liberation.

Resistance is written in blood, and does not need ink on paper [legality]. It is proven through sacrifice, undeterred by opposition. It uproots occupiers, no matter how long it takes. It does not fear the tyrants of the world, and it charts the future of the free, ignoring the croaking of frogs.

Resistance is a conviction stronger than legions, a passion that permeates every gathering, a pride that defeats every scoundrel, and a victory that immortalizes every fighter. Die in your rage! The Resistance is here to stay, strong and steadfast.

We will engage in Resistance through methods and timing aligned with the stage and the leadership’s discretion. The continuation of the Resistance does not mean we will respond or fire daily, but we will strike when we deem it appropriate and exercise patience when required. But know this: the Resistance remains.

We will not accept US tyranny over Lebanon. What did the US say to Israel? They told them, “Let’s stop since you are unable to advance any further. And we, God willing, through political means, will influence Lebanon’s internal affairs and reclaim through politics what they failed to seize through war.”

In your dreams! You will not achieve through politics what you could not achieve through war. And know this, Americans: If we are silent now, and if you move freely in malign ways, attempting to pressure Lebanese officials, you will not achieve your goals. Because Lebanese officials understand the balance of power. They know the people’s rights. They know that these diverse forces represent the people.

So, I advise you to abandon these conspiracies. Do not mistake our patience and our wisdom in prioritizing as weakness. The road is long, and we are prepared for it. We will not submit. We will not accept being killed and occupied while we remain passive. No one can demand that we expose ourselves and surrender our strength so that the enemy rules over us.

You know well that we are the children of “Never to humiliation” (Imam Hussein’s slogan).

(Crowd: “Never to humiliation”)

O those who claim to be sovereignists, o those who claim to be sovereignists, wake up! What did you do when the agreement presented an opportunity? What are you doing now? We hear not a single word from you against Israel, nor do we hear a word against the US. How can sovereignty exist alongside ongoing occupation and persistent US interference? By God, even if all the tyrants of the world unite to kill us or humiliate us, we will stand against them—until victory or martyrdom.

Did it not astound you, those who look upon us? Did it not astonish you that we emerged from beneath the rubble in the Battle of the Mighty Ones, regained the initiative, and forced Israel to plead for a ceasefire? Did the sight not shake you—the people marching south, unarmed, their bare chests defying Israeli tanks, reclaiming parts of their land?

Did the achievement of reconciliation, culminating in the election of a President, not take you by surprise? We overthrew the advocates of exclusion, and together with the Amal Movement, we became an inseparable part of the nation’s core, leading the country forward. Did they not witness how we cooperated to facilitate the formation of the government?

O our people, we are the children of the wilaya (allegiance to the Prophet & Imams), the followers of Imam Khamenei, and the disciples of Imam Khomeini. We are the children of Imam Musa al-Sadr, of Sayyed Abbas al-Mousawi, of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, of Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, of Hajj Qassem Soleimani, and of Hajj Imad Mughniyeh.

This entire lineage traces back to its origin: (Prophet) Muhammad, (Imam) Ali, and (Imam) Hussein. And we are preparing the banner for the coming of Imam al-Mahdi (may God hasten his return). “Never to humiliation”

(Crowd: “Never to humiliation”)

  • 4/ What are Hezbollah’s principles?

Fourth, what are our guiding principles? As we enter a new phase, what are the unwavering foundations that define us? We have affirmed our commitment to the covenant—meaning our Sayyed (Nasrallah) can rest assured. The commanders stand ready, the resistors endure—men, women, and children alike. The people, across all sects, remain steadfast, and the (Islamic) Nation stands resolute.

  1. Resistance is fundamental—both a matter of faith and a political choice. As long as occupation persists and its threat remains, we will uphold our right to resist, according to our own assessment of interests and circumstances. We will support the State’s diplomatic efforts to expel the occupiers, build upon the outcomes, and later determine how Lebanon should leverage its strength in discussions on the national defense strategy.

  2. Palestine is a just cause and it is our compass. We stand for its Liberation and will confront Trump’s forced displacement project alongside all the living forces in the region. The many martyrs and wounded—160,000 in Gaza—have paid the true price for the preservation of dignity, so that we may carry the banner forward and remain steadfast in our covenant.

  3. We will actively participate in building a strong, just State and contribute to its revival on the foundation of equality—equal rights and duties for all citizens—under the framework of the Taif Agreement. This will be achieved through three key pillars:

    • Expelling the occupiers and securing the release of prisoners.
    • Reconstruction, restoration, and infrastructure development as a fundamental obligation of the State—which we fully support.
    • Implementing an urgent plan for reconstruction and economic, financial, administrative, judicial, and social reform.

  4. We are committed to ensuring the participation of all in nation-building, and we uphold national unity and civil peace.

I tell you: For us, Lebanon is the final homeland of all its people, and we are among its children.

Let me emphasize a crucial point: We are allied with the Amal Movement. This alliance was sealed with blood, sacrifice, struggle, Resistance and confrontation. Do not think you can drive a wedge between us—we are one in stance, one in choices, one in policy, and we shall remain together, God willing, for our honor, the honor of Lebanon and the honor of the (Islamic) Nation.

We believe in the pivotal role of the army in defending sovereignty and security.

To the hot heads within Lebanon, I say: There is no winner and no loser, because all outcomes are tied to Israel. Let us compete for the betterment of the country and its people—that is the best course for us all.

Conclusion

I extend my gratitude to everyone—to the Lebanese people, to all the delegations who came from near and far.

I thank Imam Khamenei for his generous gesture, his speech, and the delegation he sent to this blessed gathering. I thank each and every one of you, without exception—you are all our loved ones, you are all a symbol of honor and dignity in this great and solemn assembly.

Be safe in God’s hands, o Sayyed Hassan, in His divine presence alongside His chosen ones—the prophets, the imams, and the martyrs.

May this historic day be recorded, God willing—this is a day of God, this is a day of Hussein, o you two grandsons of Hussein (Nasrallah and Safieddine).

May God’s peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you.

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