Despite hardships, Hezbollah retains its capabilities: Sheikh Qassem

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Manar TV
10 Mar 2025 00:27
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Sheikh Qassem accuses the United States of leading a "massive campaign against us, leveraging regional and Lebanese proxies" to exert pressure on Hezbollah.

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Then-Hezbollah's deputy leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, speaks during an interview for The Associated Press in Beirut's Southern Suburb, on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. (AP)

The Resistance in Lebanon remains strong and persistent, though it has suffered wounds, endured hardships, and made great sacrifices, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem said on Sunday.

In an interview for Al Manar TV, Sheikh Qassem stated that the Resistance in Lebanon managed to reach a ceasefire agreement that ended Israeli assaults, affirming that it retains its capabilities.

He emphasized that "communication has always been maintained with Speaker Nabih Berri, and we did not negotiate from a position of weakness."

The Resistance continues, especially on the battlefield, Sheikh Qassem asserted, underscoring that as long as the occupation persists, it must be confronted through the equation of "the Army, the People, and the Resistance."

The Hezbollah chief pointed out that the ceasefire agreement between "Israel" and Lebanon "is clear, with no secret clauses, no hidden deals, and no terms under the table." He noted that the agreement explicitly mentions "south of the Litani River" five times, asserting, "This is the framework we must adhere to."

"This agreement is part of UN Resolution 1701 to halt the [Israeli] aggression," he clarified, stressing that "everything Israel has done during the 60-day period constitutes violations, and we hold the Lebanese state responsible."

"Israel" has maintained periodic strikes on Lebanese territory since a ceasefire agreement came into effect on November 27, 2024.

Although the Israeli occupation military was initially set to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon by January, it was granted an extension until February 18. However, it has maintained a military presence at five locations it considers "strategic".

Security breach under investigation

Sheikh Qassem revealed that Hezbollah experienced "a security breach and some shortcomings," assuring that the group is conducting an investigation to learn lessons and hold those responsible accountable.

Addressing the Resistance’s supporters, he urged patience, saying, "Your leadership, your Resistance, and the fighters who stood in battle are present."

Regarding Israeli settlers' incursion into the al-Abbad site, Sheikh Qassem described the incident as "clear proof that we are facing a broad Israeli project extending from the ocean to the gulf."

Addressing "Israel", the Hezbollah leader warned, "Even if you remain in these positions south of Lebanon, the Resistance will not allow you to stay there."

Hezbollah's fundamental principles remain unchanged

On Lebanon’s internal affairs, Sheikh Qassem pointed to the start of a new phase but assured that while Hezbollah's methods may evolve, its fundamental principles remain unchanged. He underlined that the Resistance will never cease because, without it, "Lebanon itself would cease to exist."

"The Resistance has deterred the enemy and prevented its advance and permanent presence on our land," he said.

"Even in the areas it [Israel] currently occupies, the time will come for resistance. For now, we remain patient."

Sheikh Qassem accused the United States of leading a "massive campaign against us, leveraging regional and Lebanese proxies" to exert pressure on Hezbollah, expressing the group's readiness to confront these schemes.

Lebanese state responsible for reconstruction

On the issue of reconstruction of what was damaged by the Israeli aggression on Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem emphasized that the Lebanese state bears responsibility for it, noting that this process is an integral part of the country’s reform and recovery.

He also pointed out that "Hezbollah and Amal Movement have transcended all conventional alliances; our partnership is deep-rooted, faith-based, and tied to the people and the vision of a strong and capable Lebanon."

Tribute to Resistance fighters

In a message to Hezbollah’s Resistance fighters, Sheikh Qassem declared, "You are the crown held high on our heads and the legacy of the Ummah's martyr-Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah."

He continued, "You have defied attempts to eliminate the Resistance with utmost resolve and strength and have upheld its honorable image during the funeral processions" of Hezbollah leaders martyrs Sayyed Nasrallah and Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, which he described as "exceptional".

Additionally, the Lebanese leader expressed his hope for Syria’s stability, warning that "signs of partition are strongly present."

While it is uncertain whether such a division will materialize, "we affirm that it is not in the Syrian people’s interest," he added.