Iran stands firm on Hezbollah support amid rising pressure

Iranian officials, during the commemoration of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon, doubled down on their support for the group amid escalating pressures from the US and Israel.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran, despite all opposing statements, firmly supports the resistance in the region, and this is a definitive decision," said Saturday Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani.

Senior Iranian official Vahid Jalalzadeh backed this position, portraying Hezbollah as a key player in Lebanon’s trajectory. "Today, in this place, we announce that we are witnessing the defeat of the enemy," he said, describing the group's ongoing struggle amid regional tensions.

Iran’s renewed backing comes at a time of crisis for Hezbollah. During Israeli strikes last year, the group suffered some of its worst losses in years. In a series of coordinated attacks in September and October, thousands of Hezbollah operatives were eliminated through targeted explosions and airstrikes. Key figures, including Nasrallah himself, were killed, dealing a severe blow to the group’s leadership and command structure.

The funerals of Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah and Executive Council Chief Hashem Safieddine will take place on Sunday, February 23, according to Al Hadath.

Meanwhile, Israel has accused Iran of funneling millions of dollars to Hezbollah through secret cash deliveries. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Iranian envoys have been flying into Beirut with suitcases stuffed with US dollars, while Turkish nationals have allegedly been acting as couriers to transfer additional funds from Istanbul. These allegations have been raised in formal complaints to the US-led ceasefire committee, though existing ceasefire terms focus on arms smuggling rather than financial transactions.

Washington, too, is increasing pressure on Lebanon’s leadership. As Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam assembles his cabinet, US officials are urging Lebanese leaders to prevent Hezbollah or its allies from controlling key positions, particularly the finance ministry. US diplomats have warned that Lebanon’s ability to secure vital international aid for post-war reconstruction could be at risk if Hezbollah maintains its political grip.