Hezbollah Rejects Ceasefire Extension: Stance Grows Firmer Amid Rising Tensions

In a significant televised address, Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem praised the Palestinian resistance for their recent victory against the Israeli forces, highlighting the resilience and determination that characterized their struggle. His remarks underscored the ongoing conflict and the complex dynamics between the Israeli regime and the Palestinian people.

During his speech on Monday, Sheikh Naim Qassem emphasized several key points regarding the situation in Gaza and the broader implications for the region. Here are some of the highlights from his address:

• Failure of Israeli Objectives: “Israeli enemy failed to achieve objectives in Gaza,” Sheikh Qassem stated, pointing out that the Israeli regime, along with the support of the United States, aimed to end the resistance but ultimately fell short.
• US Complicity: He remarked, “Israeli entity would not have lasted one week without full US complicity,” highlighting the significant role the US plays in supporting Israeli actions.
• Success of Al-Aqsa Flood Operation: According to Qassem, “The objective behind al-Aqsa Flood Operation has been achieved,” signaling a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.
• Support from Iran: The Hezbollah leader expressed gratitude towards the Iranian nation and government for their backing of the Palestinian resistance, reinforcing the alliance among resistance movements in the region.
• Ground Invasion Challenges: He stated, “Israeli enemy failed to advance during ground invasion against Hezbollah,” pointing out the resilience of Lebanese forces against Israeli advances.
• Efforts to Sow Discord: Qassem noted, “Israeli enemy wanted to sow seeds of discord among Lebanese but to no avail,” indicating the unity among the resistance groups in Lebanon.
• Strength of the Resistance: “Resistance enjoys upper hand against the Israeli enemy through faith, sacrifices, steadfastness,” he asserted, emphasizing the moral and spiritual foundations of the resistance.
• Ceasefire Agreement: Sheikh Qassem mentioned, “Lebanese resistance agreed to a ceasefire because Israeli aggressor wanted a ceasefire,” revealing the tactical considerations behind the ceasefire.
• Violation of Ceasefire: The Hezbollah chief accused the Israeli forces of repeatedly breaching the ceasefire, stating, “Israeli enemy violated ceasefire more than 1,000 times.”
• Deterrence Power: He highlighted that the “Resistance managed to accumulate sustainable deterrence power against Israeli enemy,” which serves as a crucial element in the ongoing conflict.
• Need for Resistance: “Resistance in Lebanon is necessary to confront the Israeli enemy,” he reiterated, stressing the importance of maintaining a strong stance against Israeli actions.
• Implications for South Lebanon: Qassem declared, “Each and every village in south Lebanon has become the symbol of resistance against Israel,” showcasing the widespread commitment to resisting Israeli occupation.
• No Extensions to Ceasefire: He firmly stated, “Resistance won’t accept the extension of the ceasefire agreement for one moment,” illustrating the group’s determination to continue their struggle.
• Withdrawal from Occupied Areas: Sheikh Qassem demanded that “Israeli enemy must withdraw from occupied areas in south Lebanon as agreed,” calling for adherence to international agreements.
• Responsibility for Delays: He held the UN, US, and France accountable, stating, “Resistance holds UN, US, and France responsible for any delay in withdrawal of occupation.”
• No Justifications for Delay: The Hezbollah leader emphasized, “Resistance will not accept any justification for extending 60-day period,” reinforcing their stance on the urgency of the situation.

Sheikh Naim Qassem’s remarks reflect the ongoing tensions in the region and the steadfastness of the resistance movements against the backdrop of complex geopolitical dynamics. The interplay of local and international forces continues to shape the landscape of conflict, making it imperative for stakeholders to navigate these challenges carefully.

As the situation evolves, the resolve of groups like Hezbollah and their commitment to the Palestinian cause remains a central theme in the discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Their determination to resist occupation and assert their rights will likely continue to influence regional stability and peace efforts.

In conclusion, the current conflict highlights the intricate relationships between various factions and the impact of international support on local struggles for autonomy and justice. Sheikh Naim Qassem’s address serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of resistance movements in the face of adversity.