Naim Qassem has served as Hezbollah secretary-general since his election by the Shura Council in late October 2024, succeeding Hassan Nasrallah following the latter’s assassination and the death of presumed successor Hashem Safieddine. As of late August 2026, Qassem remains in the role and continues delivering public addresses on topics including Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, opposition to U.S.-brokered disarmament frameworks, and alignment with Iran. Lebanese government moves to restrict weapons to state control, coupled with ongoing Rome talks on a trilateral framework tying Israeli redeployment to verified disarmament, have intensified internal and external pressure on the group. Israeli media have reported speculation about potential replacement discussions via figures such as Nabih Berri, citing Qassem’s comparatively limited authority and recent speeches drawing internal or public criticism. Israel has also conducted or attempted targeted operations against senior Hezbollah figures, including reported attempts on Qassem. Any Shura Council decision, escalation in cross-border strikes, or shifts in Lebanese political negotiations could influence leadership continuity.