Hezbollah’s Secretary General Naim Qassem has emphasized the group will not permit any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, asserting a readiness to confront threats. He criticized Israeli violations of a ceasefire agreement mandating withdrawal beyond the Litani River and reiterated Hezbollah’s commitment to national stability and reconstruction efforts, declaring that resistance will persist until full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory is achieved.
Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem has reaffirmed the group’s unwavering stance against Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, highlighting its commitment to defending Lebanon’s sovereignty. In a televised interview with al-Manar TV, he emphasized that, despite the existence of a ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah remains prepared to respond to any imminent threats.
Qassem indicated that although Hezbollah suspended operations in adherence to the ceasefire, the group has sustained military readiness throughout the past two months. He criticized Israel for repeatedly violating the ceasefire, which stipulates that Israel must withdraw beyond the Litani River, an action that has not yet been fulfilled.
Focusing on national issues, Qassem reiterated Hezbollah’s dedication to maintaining national stability and governance, asserting that internal security should fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of state security forces. Nevertheless, he also underscored the importance of Hezbollah’s weapons in countering what he termed an “existential threat” posed by Israel, claiming that resistance is Lebanon’s inherent right worthy of defense.
Qassem also addressed the necessity for post-war reconstruction in Lebanon, asserting that rebuilding efforts must lie with the Lebanese state. He reinforced Hezbollah’s persistent involvement in Lebanon’s political and military landscape, pledging that the group’s resistance efforts would endure as long as Israeli threats are present.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the US and France on November 27, 2024, aimed to cease more than a year of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, mandating Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon within 60 days. However, Israel has not adhered to this condition, maintaining a presence in five strategically significant locations along the border while citing threats from Hezbollah.
Recent incidents of violence in the region further demonstrate ongoing tensions, including Israeli gunfire that injured a Lebanese soldier and a civilian in Kafr Kila village, alongside an explosion in Blida that resulted in additional injuries. These events highlight the ongoing instability along the Israeli-Lebanese border despite the declared ceasefire.
As tensions persist, Hezbollah’s leadership maintains that the group’s resistance will continue until Israeli forces have completely withdrawn from Lebanese soil, underscoring the paramount importance of Lebanon’s sovereignty and security in their mission.
In summary, Hezbollah, led by Naim Qassem, reaffirms its commitment to ending Israeli presence in southern Lebanon and maintains a strong military readiness despite a ceasefire. The group underscores its dedication to national stability while advocating for resistance against perceived threats from Israel. Ongoing tensions, including Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, further complicate the security landscape in the region, fueling Hezbollah’s resolve to protect Lebanese sovereignty.
Original Source: munsifdaily.com
