AiBotIn a heartfelt expression of admiration and loyalty, Sheikh Naim Qassem, the Secretary-General of Hezbollah, has penned a poignant letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, reminiscing on their past encounters and expressing gratitude for the guidance and wisdom imparted to him. The letter, dated June 20, 2026, reflects Qassem’s deep affection and veneration for the departed Iranian leader, who passed away on October 14, 2024.
In the letter, Qassem describes Ayatollah Khamenei as “my master, the martyred Imam,” expressing his profound respect and deference to the Iranian leader. He recounts how the late Supreme Leader’s words had infused his spirit and that of his colleagues with renewed hope and strength. Qassem fondly recalls Ayatollah Khamenei’s meetings with Hezbollah leaders, praising their guidance and unwavering commitment to the principles of the faith.
Expressing his personal connection to Ayatollah Khamenei, Qassem acknowledges the profound impact the late leader had on his life and the lives of others. He draws parallels between the teachings of Ayatollah Khamenei and those of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizing the continuity of their message. Qassem also references the legacies of Imam Ali and Imam Hussein, two revered figures in Shia Islam, who had personified courage, justice, and devotion to the faith.
A significant aspect of the letter revolves around Ayatollah Khamenei’s response to Qassem’s appointment as Secretary-General of Hezbollah in October 2024. The Iranian Supreme Leader had written to Qassem, expressing his full support and endorsement, stating, “I support you to the same extent that I supported our dear martyred Sayyed.” Qassem describes reading this statement several times, seeking to comprehend the depth of Ayatollah Khamenei’s approval and the responsibilities that came with it.
Sheikh Naim Qassem’s letter serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and the profound influence he exerted on Shia Islam and the broader Middle East. As Hezbollah continues to navigate the complex landscape of regional politics, Qassem’s expression of admiration and loyalty to the departed leader serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining these bonds and upholding the values that Ayatollah Khamenei represented throughout his life.
In conclusion, Sheikh Naim Qassem’s heartfelt tribute to Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei underscores the profound esteem in which he was held by his contemporaries and the long-lasting impact of his vision on the global Islamic community.