In a Wednesday statement addressing political developments in Lebanon and the region, Sheikh Naim Qassem said resistance remained necessary to liberate the Lebanese territory, adding that without it, Israel would have expanded its control over the country.
He rejected a US-sponsored framework agreement between Beirut and Israel as illegitimate and ruled out disarmament while Israeli occupation and aggression against Lebanon continue. He said the agreement violated Lebanon’s constitution.
“There is no room for discussion about disarming the resistance as long as the occupation exists and its aggression continues,” he said, adding that Hezbollah would confront any aggression against the resistance group and Lebanon.
The proposed arrangement calls for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and Hezbollah’s disarmament before the withdrawal is completed.
Describing the framework as “null and void,” Sheikh Qassem said it granted the Israeli regime concessions it did not deserve and undermined Lebanon’s sources of strength.
The Hezbollah chief reiterated his call for Israeli occupation forces to withdraw from Lebanese territory and urged the Lebanese army to deploy south of the Litani River.
Sheikh Qassem noted that Israel has repeatedly violated agreements, using them to further its expansion and reignite conflict.
He also maintained that resistance remained necessary to liberate the Lebanese territory, stating that without it, Israel would have expanded its control over the country.
The secretary general warned that “surrender and concessions” would leave Lebanon with nothing.
Reaffirming Hezbollah’s commitment to national unity, he said the resistance group was prepared to work to bridge divisions and reach common ground with other Lebanese political forces.
He stressed, however, that unity required practical steps and Hezbollah’s relationship with the Amal Movement and other allies remained strong on issues including national sovereignty and support for the Lebanese army.
Sheikh Qassem also called for an end to US interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs, describing Washington’s political pressure and influence over state institutions as violations of the country’s sovereignty.
Despite the agreement between Tel Aviv and Beirut, Israeli forces continue to carry out airstrikes in southern Lebanon and maintain control over Lebanese territory. Some areas have been under Israeli occupation for years, while others were seized during the latest war.
Hezbollah has vowed to drive Israeli occupation forces out of southern Lebanon, warning the Lebanese government that yielding to US demands would endanger the country and undermine its sovereignty.