Hezbollah’s Qassem Asserts Group’s Preparedness Without Desire for Conflict
Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem has stated that the Lebanese resistance movement is not in pursuit of war. However, he emphasized that it remains fully prepared to defend Lebanon and is ready to deliver a decisive response to any acts of aggression by its adversaries.
During a televised address from Beirut on Monday, Sheikh Qassem stated, “We in Hezbollah do not desire war and are not seeking it; however, we will not surrender and are prepared to defend.”
“There exists a significant distinction between addressing aggression and engaging in warfare. Our readiness to defend is unwavering, and we shall not succumb to intimidation.”
The leader of Hezbollah asserted that adversaries will fail against a resolute resistance group and the unwavering Lebanese populace.
“They have the capability to cause us distress, but we also possess the means to reciprocate. It is crucial not to underestimate the power of defense when the situation demands it.”
Sheikh Qassem emphasized that the core duty is to protect Lebanese territory, asserting that safeguarding the nation is a collective responsibility.
The leader of Hezbollah affirmed the group’s commitment to Lebanon’s national unity, complete sovereignty, and the cause of liberation, while strongly opposing any forms of sedition.
Sheikh Qassem expressed backing for empowering the Lebanese Army to safeguard sovereignty, advocating for both a national security strategy and harnessing the capabilities of the resistance.
“The question arises as to why there has been a lack of defense, a failure to criticize the aggression, and an absence of unequivocal support for those who are actively resisting.”
The leader of Hezbollah attributed complete responsibility for the continuing Israeli attacks to the Lebanese government. He emphasized that the authorities in power should be held liable, given their role in signing the ceasefire agreement with Israel.
He sharply criticized the government, accusing it of making a “grave mistake” by prioritizing disarmament over addressing Israeli aggression. He argued that this approach ultimately serves the interests of Israel.
Sheikh Qassem stated that the existing circumstances are unsustainable, adding that the timing, methods, and developments that will reshape this reality will be revealed through facts as they unfold.
He emphasized that the Beirut government bears joint responsibility with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Army, and the nation, asserting that occupation necessitates resistance.
Sheikh Qassem characterized Hezbollah as an indivisible entity, emphasizing its identity as a national, pan-Arab, Islamic, and humanitarian resistance movement.
The statement emphasizes a firm stance against unwarranted concessions, rejecting the imposition of directives from American, international, and Arab oversight, as well as opposing compliance with Israel’s aggressive demands.
He asserted that the government’s actions have, to some extent, contributed to what he termed as Israeli avarice, attributing it to the ongoing series of concessions.
Sheikh Qassem, addressing the Lebanese government, stated that amending the constitution would be akin to surrendering, emphasizing that the very core of the constitution is built on confrontation and defense in the pursuit of liberation.
In other parts of his speech, the leader of Hezbollah called on the Lebanese population to remain vigilant regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza and its efforts to annex the West Bank. He accused the United States of being entirely complicit in these schemes.
An official statement criticized Israel, characterizing it as an expansionist force with aspirations to occupy the entirety of Palestine and extend its influence throughout the region. The statement further described Israel as an adversary intending to annihilate human lives and demolish infrastructure.
The leader of Hezbollah stated that although Lebanon has adhered to the terms of the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, Israel has failed to fulfill any of its obligations.
