In a televised speech broadcast by Al-Manar on Monday, Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem outlined three major priorities he said were essential for Lebanon’s stability, recovery and development as the country prepares for upcoming municipal elections.
Qassem emphasized that the first priority is ending Israeli aggression. He called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the release of Lebanese hostages held by Israel. According to Qassem, Israel has committed more than 3,000 violations of the ceasefire agreement, while Hezbollah has “fully respected” the terms.
Criticizing the Lebanese government's response, Qassem said the state bears the responsibility of exerting stronger pressure on international actors—namely the United States, France and the United Nations—to halt Israeli actions. He described the pressure applied so far as “soft and limited.” Referring to Sunday’s Israeli strike on the southern suburbs of Beirut, Qassem labeled it a “political aggression” aimed at forcing new dynamics in Lebanon.
The second priority he outlined is the reconstruction of the country. Qassem accused the Lebanese government of failing to deliver on its promises, stressing that rebuilding infrastructure and restoring livelihoods are essential for national recovery.
Qassem said the third priority is building a strong and functional state. He underlined that a stable Lebanon must rest on its foundational institutions, adding, “Lebanon will remain strong through its resistance, its army and its people, and we will not give up our strength.”
Addressing the upcoming municipal and mukhtar elections, Qassem stressed that participation must be motivated by public service, not political investment or personal gain. He emphasized the need to contribute to reforming municipal management, to make their experience a leading one and to present a model that satisfies citizens.
Qassem also stressed that candidates for municipal councils must be competent, publicly accepted and committed to serving the common good. He urged citizens to turn out in large numbers on election day, stating that anyone who wants to develop their town must shoulder the responsibility through active participation.
Comments