Hezbollah Leader Goes Beyond the State: We Will Import Fuel from Iran

Hassan Nasrallah, the Secretary-General of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, stated on Sunday that he will begin importing gasoline and diesel from Iran. Lebanon is suffering from a severe fuel shortage, leading to long lines at gas stations and extensive power outages. Hospitals, bakeries, and other essential facilities have reported that they will have to close due to dwindling fuel supplies. Nasrallah said in a speech, "I assure you, yes, God willing, we will bring diesel and gasoline from Iran for sure," noting that the government is no longer able to provide it. In June, Nasrallah mentioned that all logistics necessary for such an initiative were ready, and that Hezbollah would be able to proceed without the involvement of Lebanon's central bank, in order to avoid U.S. sanctions. On Sunday, Nasrallah indicated that Iran has assured him it would stand by Lebanon and blamed the Lebanese government and American influence for not responding to the Iranian offer. He added that the matter has been settled and that he would inform the public of the timeline within the next two or three days.