Lebanon’s Hezbollah is set to hold a massive funeral for its late leader Hassan Nasrallah on Sunday. The event expected to draw thousands will take place at the Camille Chamoun Sports Stadium in Beirut. Hezbollah has announced strict security measures and authorities have temporarily suspended flights at Beirut Airport for the occasion.

Details & Context

Hassan Nasrallah who led Hezbollah for decades was killed in an Israeli airstrike nearly five months ago. His funeral is not just a final tribute but also a show of strength for the Iran-backed group. Supporters from Lebanon and abroad are expected to attend in large numbers.

The funeral will begin at 1:00 p.m. local time (1100 GMT) with a speech from the current leader, Naim Qassem. After the ceremony a procession will move toward the burial site near the airport road an area now covered with Hezbollah flags and banners.

Lebanese officials including the president have been invited. Iran Hezbollah’s main ally has confirmed high-level participation.

Security and Logistics

- Strict Security Measures: Hezbollah has urged Lebanese security forces to assist in crowd control.

- Airport Closure: Beirut’s civil aviation authority has temporarily suspended flights from midday to 4:00 pm for safety reasons.

- US Travel Advisory: The US Embassy has advised American citizens to avoid the area due to potential security risks.

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Public Sentiment

Many Hezbollah supporters view Nasrallah as a symbol of resistance. “It’s a historic moment. Israel will see that we are not afraid” said Hassan Wehbe a 60 year old resident of Beirut’s southern suburbs.

Hezbollah’s Strength and Future

Nasrallah played a crucial role in transforming Hezbollah into Lebanon’s most powerful political and military force. His successor Hashem Safieddine was also killed in an Israeli airstrike. Safieddine’s funeral will take place on Monday in his hometown of Deir Qanun Al-Nahr.

Background

The recent conflict between Hezbollah and Israel escalated in October 2023 leading to thousands of deaths including high-ranking Hezbollah commanders. Although a ceasefire was reached on November 27th Israel has yet to fully withdraw its troops from Lebanese territory.

Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral marks the end of an era for Hezbollah. The gathering will not only pay tribute to the late leader but also reinforce the group’s political and military influence.