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Hezbollah Links its Fate to Iran
Hezbollah signaled that it will not remain neutral if Iran’s Islamic Republic faces serious danger. The group has long described itself as aligned with Iran’s political and religious leadership. Therefore, any threat to Tehran’s stability is viewed as a direct threat to Hezbollah.
Protests in Iran since late December 2025 have raised concerns inside Hezbollah’s leadership. Although claims emerged that Hezbollah sent operatives to Iran, there is no verified evidence. For now, the group has offered verbal support while keeping its fighters in reserve.
Statements on Iranian Protests
Hezbollah issued its first statement on the protests on January 13. It praised Iranians who rallied in support of the government and accused the United States and Israel of influencing anti-government demonstrations. According to Hezbollah, Washington was trying to weaken Iran from within for its own geopolitical goals.
Additionally, the group argued that Iran respects peaceful protest but blamed unrest on foreign actors who seek chaos and instability. Hezbollah said it would back the Iranian leadership against what it calls foreign interference.
Qassem Says Neutrality Not an Option
On January 26, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem delivered a speech reaffirming loyalty to Iran’s Supreme Leader. He described the supreme leader as central to the group’s religious and strategic decisions. As a result, Qassem said threats to Iran’s leadership are also threats to Hezbollah.
Furthermore, Qassem suggested that the United States and Israel are using protests to destabilize the Islamic Republic. He claimed they are pursuing a wider plan targeting Iran, Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria.
Possible Response to War Scenarios
Qassem said Hezbollah would choose how and when to act if Iran faced a direct military attack. He stressed that Hezbollah is not neutral and would defend Iran if needed. However, he said the response would depend on conditions at the time.
He also rejected arguments that supporting Iran would drag Lebanon into conflict. Instead, he said Hezbollah believes U.S. and Israeli pressure already affects Lebanon and aims to weaken its resistance capabilities.
Warning of Regional Escalation
According to Qassem, any war against Iran could ignite the broader region. He argued that Iran has supported Hezbollah for decades. Therefore, refusing to defend Iran would harm Lebanon and strengthen foreign pressure. He said dignity and resistance remain core principles for the group.
Key Points
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Hezbollah says Iran’s stability is linked to its own future
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Group accuses U.S. and Israel of exploiting protests
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Neutrality ruled out if Iran faces external attack
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Regional conflict risk highlighted by Hezbollah leadership
