• Hezbollah commemorates the death of its leader Nasrallah, killed by Israel one year ago.
• Naim Qassem, Hezbollah's new leader, vows the group will not disarm.
• Tensions rise in Lebanon as supporters and opponents clash over Hezbollah's military presence.
• A year after the last conflict, Hezbollah remains under pressure from the Lebanese government and international forces.

On September 27, 2025, Hezbollah commemorated the one-year anniversary of the killing of its former leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israeli forces in a striking air attack on a Beirut complex. His successor, Naim Qassem, addressed thousands of supporters at Nasrallah's tomb, reiterating the group's commitment to retaining its military arsenal, despite significant losses suffered in the recent conflicts. Qassem asserted, “We will never abandon our weapons, nor will we relinquish them,” amidst the backdrop of Israel’s continued military pressure on Lebanon, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Dawn.

The Lebanese government has recently intensified calls for Hezbollah to disarm, a demand that has been met with obstinate resistance from the group. As Qassem addressed his supporters, who rallied in black attire with many carrying Nasrallah's portrait, local sentiments against the government's disarmament plan grew. Qassem's speech coincided with similar declarations from Lebanese citizens, including 21-year-old student Ali Jaafar, who expressed skepticism about disarmament, stating: "Handing over the weapons is the dream of the enemies," as reported by Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Dawn.

In the days leading up to the anniversary, tensions between Hezbollah supporters and opponents escalated, particularly after Hezbollah projected images of Nasrallah and his successor Hashem Safieddine onto iconic Beirut landmarks, defying orders from government officials. This act highlighted the polarizing nature of Hezbollah’s presence in Lebanon and the emboldened stance of its supporters, including remarks from attendees who emphasized their unwavering commitment to the group’s military strategies. Iranian security chief Ali Larijani was also present at the commemorative events, showcasing Tehran's ongoing support for Hezbollah, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Dawn.

Despite a ceasefire agreement in November 2024 that followed months of conflict and significant casualties, including hundreds of civilians, Israel has continued its military operations inside Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah members and installations. This continued engagement has only served to solidify Hezbollah's resolve to maintain its military capabilities and resist disarmament calls from both the Lebanese government and the international community, as outlined by statements from various sources, including Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Dawn.