Why it matters:
The significance of this event stems from its role in reaffirming the spiritual and political connection to the Axis of Resistance and highlighting the sacrifices of Hezbollah’s martyrs, who formed the cornerstone of Lebanon’s defense against the Israeli enemy. This commemoration also gains added value in light of current security developments, as the culture of martyrdom once again emerges at the forefront of the public sphere as a source of strength and resilience.
The big picture:
The notable presence of members of the Iranian community and the families of Hezbollah martyrs distinguished the ceremony. Images of the martyrs and leaders of the Resistance were displayed, and speeches and narratives embodying the spirit of sacrifice and devotion were delivered. Alongside a side exhibition featuring documentary and cultural works related to the martyrs and their experiences, the organizers honored the families of the martyrs.
What they are saying:
Ayatollah Sayyed Issa Tabatabaei, in this ceremony, began his remarks by emphasizing that the martyrs “trade with God in a commerce that never fails,” explaining that “those who lose their real trade have lost both this world and the hereafter, while the true winners are those who preserved their dignity, honor, and homeland.” He stressed that the efforts of the community and the Resistance forces in serving the families of the martyrs “are a religious and moral duty ordered by the Leader of the Islamic Republic, and this is the least we can do to honor these sacrifices.” He also noted the efforts of brothers in Iran who visit villages and rural areas, presenting memorial plaques and messages of condolence to the families of the martyrs, in accordance with the Leader’s directives.
Hajj Ali Raslan, inspired by this spirit, recounted a moving scene from the front lines, remembering one of the brothers who continued his mission after most of his comrades had been martyred. He was forced to cross the front lines to deliver vital coordinates to Resistance units. The narrator described the moments when drones pursued him and threatened to strike before he sought refuge with Lady Fatimah al-Zahra (peace be upon her), saying, “O Fatimah, I take refuge in you.” He swore that two missiles exploded above his head without harming him, allowing him to reach the front and participate in a successful operation, a sacrifice dedicated to the Mother of the Faithful.
Ali Tabatabaei, director of the Imam Khomeini Complex for the Iranian community in Beirut, confirmed in an exclusive interview with the Iran Press International News Agency that the community has spent the past year visiting the families of the martyrs, especially in the Bir Hassan area, and that this event was a continuation of those efforts. He noted that today, coinciding with the opening of a cultural exhibition dedicated to the lives of the martyrs and organized in cooperation with several cultural associations, forty families of martyrs were honored.
Tabatabaei noted that the steadfastness of these families demonstrates that “the people of Lebanon remain committed to the path of Resistance and are ready to sacrifice everything in defense of their dignity.” He revealed that some families have offered three martyrs and continue to remain steadfast in their commitment, considering it a moral responsibility that requires ongoing efforts to serve these families and honor their sacrifices.
Go deeper:
This commemoration shows that Hezbollah Martyrs’ Day is no longer merely an annual event, but has become a space for reviving the consciousness of Resistance and reinforcing the values of sacrifice and altruism that form the cornerstone of the Lebanese community’s resilience. The role of the Iranian community is a vivid example of the cultural and emotional reach of the Axis of Resistance and the shared understanding among people who hold a common vision of dignity and sovereignty.
Zohre Khazaee - Mojtaba Darabi
