Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has appointed Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, as his official representative in Lebanon, Iranian state media reported on Monday.

“The leader of the revolution in a decree introduced Sheikh Naim Qassem, secretary general of Hezbollah, as his representative in Lebanon,” Tasnim news agency said.

Tasnim carried a copy of the official decree which said Qassem will represent Khamenei in handling “non-litigious matters” and “managing religious affairs” in Lebanon.

Qassem has been elected to replace Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in a strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs in September. 

Qassem, a longtime deputy to Nasrallah, has played a central role in Hezbollah’s internal operations and its relations with Tehran. His appointment as Khamenei’s representative underscores Iran’s continued influence over the group and its activities in Lebanon.