Hezbollah Chief Calls for New Saudi Relations Amid Regional Tensions

Hezbollah's chief, Naim Qassem, has called on Saudi Arabia to set aside past disputes and form a unified front against Israel, given the historic hostility with Lebanon. Despite Hezbollah's designation as a terrorist group by Riyadh, there have been political shifts with potential to reshape alliances.

Hezbollah's leader Naim Qassem urged Saudi Arabia to overcome past conflicts and unite against Israel, calling it the greatest threat to regional stability. His remarks came during a televised address, highlighting a potential pivot in Middle Eastern alliances amid lingering tensions.

Saudi Arabia had labeled Hezbollah a terrorist organization in 2016 and pressured Lebanon to disarm the group. Despite diminished Hezbollah strength post-conflict with Israel, Riyadh's relations with Lebanon remain strained, particularly since the Lebanese ambassador was expelled in 2021 amid accusations of Hezbollah's dominant influence.

With recent geopolitical changes, including Israel's military actions against Hezbollah and internal shifts in Syria, Qassem's call for renewed cooperation hints at evolving regional dynamics. However, historical grievances and economic investments, previously hampered by Hezbollah's influence, continue to shape Saudi-Lebanese relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)