Hezbollah’s Commitment to End Israeli Presence in Southern Lebanon

Hezbollah affirms its commitment to remove Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, despite a ceasefire agreement. Secretary General Naim Qassem emphasizes the group’s military readiness and the state’s responsibility for reconstruction. Recent incidents of violence persist, underscoring tensions along the border, even after a US- and French-brokered truce aimed to stabilize the situation.

In a recent statement, Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem declared the group’s unyielding commitment to expel any Israeli presence from southern Lebanon. This assertion was made during a televised interview with al-Manar TV, where Qassem highlighted Hezbollah’s military preparedness despite adhering to the ceasefire. He pointed to numerous Israeli violations of the ceasefire terms, particularly the stipulation for Israeli forces to withdraw beyond the Litani River.

Qassem further reiterated Hezbollah’s role in national stability and governance, asserting that the exclusive authority over internal security belongs to security forces. Nevertheless, he maintained that Hezbollah’s arms are essential for defending against what he described as an existential threat from Israel, emphasizing that resistance represents Lebanon’s right to protect itself.

Addressing the reconstruction of war-impacted areas, Qassem stated that it is the state’s responsibility to rebuild. He underscored Hezbollah’s ongoing influence in both political and military spheres, proclaiming that the group’s resistance would endure as long as threats from Israel persist.

The ceasefire agreement dated November 27, 2024, facilitated a significant de-escalation of conflict after prolonged hostilities. This accord stipulated that Israeli troops withdraw within sixty days; however, several Israeli positions remain occupied, citing threats from Hezbollah as justification for their presence. Recent incidents of violence, including injuries sustained by a Lebanese soldier and a civilian due to Israeli gunfire, have further fueled tensions in the region.

Despite the ceasefire negotiated by the United States and France, Israel’s operations in Lebanon continue, including airstrikes aimed at addressing perceived threats from Hezbollah. This ongoing situation demonstrates the fragile nature of the peace agreement, as Israeli forces retain five strategic locations along the border well past the designated withdrawal date.

Hezbollah’s resolve to eliminate Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, as articulated by Secretary General Naim Qassem, showcases the ongoing tensions in the region. Despite a recent ceasefire agreement aimed at fostering peace, violations and Israeli military operations persist, indicating a complex and unstable security landscape. The reconstruction of affected areas remains a critical state responsibility, while Hezbollah’s arms are seen as essential for confronting threats posed by Israel.

Original Source: www.dtnext.in