Hezbollah, led by Secretary General Naim Qassem, has reiterated its commitment to ending Israeli presence in southern Lebanon while defending Lebanese sovereignty. Despite a ceasefire, Israel has violated terms and Hezbollah remains poised to respond. Qassem emphasizes the importance of resistance and national stability, and Hezbollah’s role in reconstruction as tensions persist along the border amid Israeli non-compliance with the ceasefire agreement.
Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem has firmly stated that the organization will not tolerate any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, highlighting its dedication to defending Lebanon’s sovereignty. In a televised interview with al-Manar TV, he affirmed Hezbollah’s preparedness to respond to any threats, despite the existence of a ceasefire agreement.
Qassem indicated that although Hezbollah has paused operations under the ceasefire, it has maintained military alertness. He pointed out numerous violations by Israel of the ceasefire, emphasizing that the agreement mandates Israel’s withdrawal to beyond the Litani River, which has not yet transpired.
In addressing domestic concerns, Qassem reiterated Hezbollah’s commitment to national stability and governance. He stressed that internal security must be solely managed by the security forces while asserting the importance of Hezbollah’s weaponry for confronting what he termed the “existential threat” from Israel. He maintained that the resistance against Israel is Lebanon’s right and will be upheld.
Regarding Lebanon’s post-war reconstruction, Qassem declared that it is the Lebanese state’s duty to rebuild war-affected regions. He underscored Hezbollah’s significant position in Lebanon’s political and military landscape, asserting that the group’s resistance will persist as long as threats from Israel continue.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the US and France on November 27, 2024, aimed to conclude over a year of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. This agreement required Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days, a requirement it has not fully met, retaining a presence in five critical locations, citing perceived threats from Hezbollah.
Recent violence along the border continues to escalate incidents, including Israeli gunfire near Kafr Kila, which resulted in injuries to a Lebanese soldier and a civilian, as well as an explosion in Blida that wounded a civilian collecting scrap metal. These occurrences underscore the ongoing volatility in the region despite the ceasefire.
Amid these tensions, Hezbollah has vowed to continue its resistance against Israeli occupation until Israel fully withdraws from Lebanese territory, asserting that the protection of Lebanon’s sovereignty and security remains its top priority.
Hezbollah remains resolute in its commitment to end Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, standing firm on its preparedness to respond to any threats. The organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining national stability while asserting its right to defend Lebanon against perceived Israeli aggression. Recent violations of the ceasefire agreement by Israel reinforce the ongoing tensions, prompting Hezbollah’s continued resistance until full withdrawal is achieved. The group considers its role in post-war reconstruction vital as it reassures its position within Lebanon’s political framework while prioritizing national security.
Original Source: munsifdaily.com