Pezeshkian expressed his belief that Qassem's leadership would enhance the resolve of the resistance, while also calling for an end to the aggression of the "illegal Zionist regime" (Israel) and the establishment of peace and security in Gaza, Lebanon, and the broader region. This statement was shared on his official website.
Hezbollah announced Qassem’s appointment earlier on Tuesday, following his tenure as Nasrallah’s deputy.
In a speech after Nasrallah's elimination by the IDF last month, Qassem addressed the organization’s future, saying, "A new leader will be selected in accordance with Hezbollah's regulations at the earliest opportunity. We are prepared for an Israeli ground invasion of Lebanon—Israel will not achieve its goals, and we will be victorious."
He emphasized that Hezbollah would continue to confront Israel to support Gaza and Palestine and to defend Lebanon and its people. "Palestine and Jerusalem were central to Nasrallah's priorities," he noted.
Iran is a key supporter of Hezbollah and has consistently pledged its backing for the group. Last month, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that the region is on the brink of a “full-scale catastrophe” and affirmed that Tehran would not remain passive in the event of war in Lebanon. He reiterated Iran's support for Hezbollah in its "just cause" to defend Lebanon against what he termed Israeli "atrocities" and "occupation."