An Ultra-Orthodox Journalist's Controversial Visit to Nasrallah's Grave
In a bold move that has sparked debate, Yitzhak Horowitz, an ultra-Orthodox Israeli journalist, ventured into the heart of Hezbollah's stronghold in Beirut. Accompanied by a Lebanese guide, Horowitz visited the grave of Hassan Nasrallah, the late Secretary-General of Hezbollah, more than a year after his death. The journalist's account, set to be published in the Hebrew-language weekly B'Kehilla, reveals a unique perspective on this controversial visit.
Horowitz described his experience in Dahieh, a district adorned with Hezbollah flags. He explored the underground bunker where Nasrallah met his demise and the very spot where he was laid to rest. The journalist's guide, a local resident, shared intriguing details. According to Horowitz, the guide explained that Hezbollah acquired the burial plot from an insurance company, demolished the existing structure, and plans to build a grand mosque on the site.
The journalist's hesitation before entering Nasrallah's grave tent was addressed by the guide, who assured him, 'Do not be afraid. You must follow my instructions. If they ask you questions, you do not understand Arabic. I will answer for you.' Horowitz was instructed to claim Spanish origins. The guide's words were profound: 'The holy Nasrallah will rise again, and we pray for his return to lead the resistance against the forces of evil.'
Despite the guide's assurance, Horowitz's fear lingered. He chose not to bring his phone into the compound but allowed the guide to photograph him near the grave. As they departed, they encountered a blind man, allegedly injured in a pager explosion, on their way to pray at Sayyid Nasrallah's grave.
Nasrallah's burial in Beirut, nearly five months after his death, was a grand affair. Hundreds of thousands of Hezbollah supporters gathered for the funeral, with the IDF confirming its aircraft flew over the city, releasing rare footage. The journalist's visit and the guide's insights offer a glimpse into the complex dynamics surrounding Nasrallah's legacy and the ongoing tensions in the region.
