Hezbollah is "far from collapse, contrary to leaks from Israel," the Israeli newspaper Maariv suggested, highlighting the Lebanese group's rejection of "Israel's" demands regarding a ceasefire, which it perceives as "surrender to Israel," something Hezbollah firmly opposes.

The newspaper acknowledged that "Israel is struggling to impose the settlement it desires on Hezbollah," which "has been speaking with a language of strength and confidence," noting the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon's objections to the Israeli demands.

Maariv further suggested that "Hezbollah is preparing for a prolonged conflict," emphasizing that Hezbollah's Secretary-General, Sheikh Naim Qassem, has shown no flexibility to negotiate a ceasefire, pointing out that "if he were," then the Israeli occupation's Security Minister Yoav Gallant wouldn't have issued threats against him in his post on X.

The paper recalls Sheikh Qassem's statements from his inaugural speech as Secretary-General, where he asserted "the ability to fight for days, weeks, and months."

Furthermore, it highlighted Sheikh Qassem's remarks about the accomplishments of the Resistance: the drone attack on the Prime Minister's residence in Caesarea, the attack on the Golani base in Binyamina, the ongoing firepower aimed at northern settlements, as well as the fact that Haifa became "a preferred target" for Hezbollah.

Additionally, Maariv noted that Hezbollah is intent on rejecting Israeli demands, as "the determination of its fighters to stand firm against the Israeli army gives them the freedom to refuse [to submit to any demands]."

In reference to the concept of martyrdom in the ideology of Hezbollah fighters, the newspaper stated: "It is true that they are losing fighters, but this is the very reason for their existence: to fight, and even to sacrifice."

'Israel' will not dismantle or defeat Hezbollah: Ex-Israeli colonel

"Israel" will not dismantle or defeat Hezbollah, retired Israeli military colonel and national security expert Kobi Marom, told the Israeli Channel 12 on Friday, underlining that the Israeli occupation lacks the capacity to achieve such an objective.

Highlighting the challenges facing the Israeli military, Marom noted, "Israel is experiencing difficult days in the North, with tough fighting" against the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon. He acknowledged Hezbollah's growing firepower and leadership capabilities, even as diplomatic negotiations are underway.

Marom also urged caution regarding a potential Iranian response, noting the Israeli occupation's repeated failure over the past year to accurately assess its adversaries' intentions. Reflecting on the toll of the prolonged war, he stated that "Israel" was grappling with "significant repercussions across the military, reserves, and the economy."

On the military front, Marom pointed to substantial burdens placed on the regular forces and a growing ammunition shortage, while also acknowledging the severe strain on the reserve forces. Economically, he noted that "each day of war costs around a billion shekels, which is a heavy burden on Israel."

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