Hezbollah’s Secretary General Naim Qassem has emphasized the organization’s commitment to ending Israeli occupancy in southern Lebanon, maintaining military readiness despite a ceasefire. He highlights Israel’s violations of the ceasefire terms and underscores Hezbollah’s role in national stability alongside ongoing resistance against Israeli threats. Recent incidents along the border reflect continued tensions, illustrating the fragile nature of the ceasefire agreement.
Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem has reaffirmed the group’s unyielding intention to eradicate any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, underscoring the party’s commitment to upholding Lebanon’s sovereignty. In a televised interview with al-Manar TV, he declared that despite a ceasefire, Hezbollah is prepared to respond to any provocations.
Qassem noted that while Hezbollah paused military operations in line with the ceasefire, the group maintained its military readiness over the past two months. He pointed out Israel’s repeated violations of the ceasefire, emphasizing that the agreement mandates Israel’s withdrawal beyond the Litani River, a condition that remains unmet.
On domestic front issues, Qassem expressed Hezbollah’s dedication to national stability and governance, asserting that internal security should be the exclusive domain of security forces. Nonetheless, he maintained that Hezbollah’s armament is essential for countering the perceived existential threat posed by Israel, reinforcing that resisting Israel is a right that Hezbollah will continue to uphold.
Qassem also addressed the reconstruction of post-war Lebanon, asserting that rebuilding efforts must be spearheaded by the Lebanese state. He restated Hezbollah’s significant role in both the political and military landscapes, declaring that the group’s resistance is imperative as long as Israeli aggression persists.
The ceasefire agreement engineered by the United States and France on November 27, 2024, was intended to end over a year of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, mandating Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon within a 60-day timeframe. However, compliance has been lacking, with Israel maintaining a presence in five critical areas along the border, citing continued threats from Hezbollah.
Recently, incidents have exacerbated tensions, including Israeli gunfire injuring a Lebanese soldier and a civilian in Kafr Kila village, and an explosion in Blida injuring another civilian. These events underscore the ongoing volatility in the region despite the established ceasefire.
In light of these circumstances, Hezbollah’s leadership has asserted that the group’s resistance will persist as long as Israeli forces occupy Lebanese territory, affirming a commitment to safeguard Lebanon’s sovereignty and security.
In summary, Hezbollah has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon while stressing the importance of national sovereignty. The group remains vigilant despite a ceasefire arrangement, accusing Israel of multiple violations. Qassem’s statements reflect Hezbollah’s dual focus on both military readiness and governance within Lebanon, alluding to the group’s ongoing involvement in national reconstruction and defense efforts against perceived external threats.
Original Source: munsifdaily.com
