Hezbollah: Disarmament Will Lead to the Gradual Occupation of Lebanon
BEIRUT, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated in a televised speech on the party's Al-Manar TV on the 24th that any attempt to disarm the organization will lead to the "elimination" of Hezbollah and the gradual occupation of Lebanon.
Qassem warned that Hezbollah's existence is under threat, as Israel intends to eliminate the "resistance forces" and incorporate all of Lebanon into its so-called "Greater Israel" plan. Disarming Hezbollah would pave the way for Israel to gradually control Lebanon.
Qassem stated that despite the severe destruction and casualties caused by the current conflict, Hezbollah will not back down and will continue to remain on the battlefield until Israel withdraws from Lebanese territory. At that time, the displaced residents of southern Lebanon will also return to their homes.
Qassem said that the Israeli military has failed to establish stable control in any area of southern Lebanon. Furthermore, Hezbollah refuses to engage in direct negotiations with Israel and urges the Lebanese government not to negotiate directly with Israel, warning it not to take a stance against the "resistance forces" or make concessions to the United States and Israel.
Under U.S. mediation, Lebanon and Israel have held three rounds of talks in Washington since April, with the ceasefire deadline extended multiple times. However, since the ceasefire took effect, the Israeli military has conducted airstrikes almost daily in southern Lebanon, citing violations of the ceasefire agreement by Hezbollah, and has dismantled and destroyed what it calls "Hezbollah military infrastructure" in the areas it occupies in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah leader Naeem Qassem warned that any attempt to disarm the group would result in its destruction and the gradual occupation of Lebanon by Israel. He stated that Hezbollah's existence is under threat from Israeli intentions to eliminate resistance forces. Despite ongoing conflicts causing significant damage and casualties, Hezbollah remains committed to its position until Israel withdraws from Lebanese territory.
- Hezbollah leader warns that disarming the group will lead to its destruction.
- Israel aims to eliminate Hezbollah and control Lebanon as part of its 'Greater Israel' plan.
- Hezbollah refuses to negotiate directly with Israel and advises the Lebanese government against it.
- Israeli military has conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon, citing violations of ceasefire by Hezbollah.
- Hezbollah asserts it will remain on the battlefield until Israel withdraws from Lebanese territory.