Iranian military advisor Abbas Nilforoushan was chosen by Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah as the successor to Mohammad Reza Zahedi after Zahedi’s assassination in April. Nilforoushan, along with Nasrallah and other senior Hezbollah officials, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut in September. Despite the losses, General Javad Esteki of the IRGC emphasized Nilforoushan’s qualities and the resilience of the resistance against Zionist forces.
Esteki highlighted Nilforoushan’s Arabic fluency, regional experience, and military expertise, making him an ideal choice for the role. He noted that the deaths of Nilforoushan and Zahedi did not weaken the resolve of the resistance, as new successors have already been appointed. Drawing parallels with past conflicts, Esteki emphasized the continuation of the resistance despite challenges.
The legacy of fallen commanders like General Qassem Soleimani and the ongoing struggle for the liberation of al-Quds were also mentioned, showcasing the commitment and determination of Iranian military figures in the face of adversity.