Hezbollah's Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem made his second appearance following the killing of Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike that targeted the group's central headquarters in the southern suburbs of Beirut on September 27. His speech comes one year after Hezbollah launched what it called the "support front" for Gaza, following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
In a televised address on Tuesday, Hezbollah's Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem emphasized Iran's crucial support, stating, "Iran is committed to supporting the resistance in the way it deems appropriate."
He underscored the importance of national unity and the Shiite alliance between Hezbollah and Amal, highlighting the significant role of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in efforts to achieve a ceasefire. "We have full confidence in Mr. Nabih Berri, who is like an older brother to Hezbollah, and we support the political efforts he leads," he added.
On the ongoing conflict, Qassem asserted, "Netanyahu will not achieve his goals from this war." He pointed out, "Netanyahu says he wants to bring the settlers back to the north; we say that many more will be displaced." He stressed that "the longer the war lasts, the more difficult Israel's situation will become."
Acknowledging the crisis caused by mass displacement, he remarked, "Large-scale displacement creates a crisis and pressure. We try to assist as much as possible in cooperation with the Lebanese state to address the challenges faced by the displaced, but this is part of the sacrifice."
Qassem praised the "national unity that has emerged across various regions and communities, reinforcing the collective strength of the people."
Regarding internal matters, he stated, "We will complete (Hezbollah) the election of the Secretary-General according to organizational mechanisms. The circumstances are difficult, but the election will take place."
On the Israeli ground offensive, he noted, "In the ground confrontation, the Israeli enemy has not advanced, which is a testament to the resistance's steadfastness and capabilities."
He stated that the group's military capabilities remained "fine" despite Israel's heavy airstrikes, "You can see that our daily achievements are significant. Hundreds of rockets and dozens of drones have targeted numerous Israeli settlements and cities... I want to reassure you that our capabilities are fine."
Finally, concerning the ongoing fighting, Qassem remarked, "The aggression against the South, Bekaa, and Dahyeh is deeply painful. The only solution for us is resistance, steadfastness, and the support of our people. We will defeat Israel, God willing."
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