Muhammad Mahdi Nasrallah, one of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah's sons, made a notable announcement over the weekend, declaring his intention to distance himself from the organization's terrorist activities and political sphere, emphasizing instead his commitment to "focus on religious studies."
This declaration follows his recent elevation in religious rank, marked by a significant ceremony in Iran where Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei personally bestowed upon him his father's turban.
In a recorded statement, Muhammad Mahdi reflected on his father's characteristics – the leader of the terrorist organization in Lebanon who was eliminated by Israel in September – noting that being a "realistic person" was among his finest qualities.
"Recently, I've observed that some hold high expectations for me," he elaborated. "I've chosen to address these expectations by maintaining a realistic perspective. My position is that of a student, and my obligation, as I see it, is to fulfill what the honorable master requested – to devote myself entirely to the pursuit of knowledge."
The young Nasrallah continued, expressing his ongoing commitment to Shiite Islamic seminary studies: "God willing, I shall serve in areas aligned with my academic pursuits – in knowledge dissemination, messaging, and education. This is my role, working alongside media professionals and messengers to fill the void left by the honorable master. Regarding other domains, such as politics and military affairs, these are entrusted to specialists who continue to develop their capabilities and fulfill their missions. May Allah grant us success in these endeavors."
Video: Hassan Nasrallah's son declares his intention to distance himself from the organization's terrorist activities
It's worth noting that Hezbollah maintains diverse operational branches beyond its direct terrorist activities. The organization encompasses religious and educational institutions, an extensive welfare network, and a council of religious scholars. Therefore, while Muhammad Mahdi may distance himself from military operations or parliamentary involvement, this doesn't preclude his potential influence in other significant sectors of Hezbollah's structure.
As previously noted, Mahdi recently traveled to the city of Qom to receive his black turban, symbolizing his elevated status as a Shiite cleric. Significantly, within his religious tradition, the boundaries between political and religious authority remain notably fluid. His public stance may represent a strategic move to minimize potential threats.
During the turban ceremony, he shared on his Instagram account: "May Allah grant me success in fulfilling my promise to my father, made before his pure body – to complete the path of knowledge and learning, following the approach of Ahl al-Bayt (Prophet Muhammad's family members and legitimate heirs according to Shiite Islam)."
Hassan Nasrallah's family included five children: Hadi, Zeinab, Muhammad Jawad, Muhammad Mahdi, and Muhammad Ali. In September 1997, his eldest son, Hadi Nasrallah, was killed during an IDF operation in southern Lebanon. His death was confirmed following an encounter with Hezbollah terrorists. Subsequently, Hadi's remains were exchanged for those of Shayetet 13 warrior Itamar Ilya, who died in a Hezbollah ambush along with 15 more commanders.
