Hezbollah Reiterates Commitment to End Israeli Presence in Southern Lebanon

Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem vowed to eliminate Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, emphasizing its military readiness despite the ceasefire. He underscored the necessity of Hezbollah’s arms for national defense and outlined the state’s responsibility for reconstruction. Recent incidents of violence continue to strain relations, with Israeli forces remaining in key border positions, contrary to terms of a ceasefire agreement.

Hezbollah’s Secretary General, Naim Qassem, emphasized the group’s unwavering commitment to preventing any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon. In a televised interview with al-Manar TV, he stated that while Hezbollah halted operations during the ceasefire, it maintained military readiness. Qassem highlighted multiple Israeli violations and asserted that the agreement mandates Israel’s withdrawal beyond the Litani River.

Addressing domestic issues, Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to national stability and the governance of internal security by official forces. Nevertheless, he insisted that Hezbollah’s arsenal remains essential for confronting Israel, describing it as an existential threat to Lebanon. “Resistance is Lebanon’s right,” he asserted, underlining the group’s continuous military role.

Qassem also discussed the responsibility of the state in reconstructing war-torn regions, maintaining that Hezbollah will remain active in both political and military arenas as long as Israeli threats persist. Following a truce agreement on November 27, 2024, the hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, including a significant two-month conflict, largely ceased, although Israeli forces continue to occupy strategic positions along the border, citing threats from Hezbollah.

Recent incidents illustrate ongoing tensions; a Lebanese soldier and a civilian were injured by Israeli gunfire near Kafr Kila village. Reports from the National News Agency confirmed these injuries, indicating that the situation remains volatile. Additionally, a separate incident in the border village of Blida resulted in an injury due to a small explosive device. Despite a ceasefire mediated by the US and France, Israeli forces’ continued presence and actions raise concerns over compliance with the peace agreement.

In conclusion, Hezbollah remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, while affirming the importance of its military capabilities to counter perceived threats. The ongoing tension, highlighted by recent violence, reflects the complexities of the ceasefire agreement, which has thus far failed to ensure complete Israeli withdrawal. The situation remains precarious, emphasizing the need for effective governance and reconstruction in the region.

Original Source: ommcomnews.com