In a recent statement that underscores ongoing regional tensions, Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem has warned that the United States and Israel pose an existential threat to Lebanon. Speaking to LBCI Lebanon, Qassem emphasized that the militant group will never relinquish its weapons, framing them as essential to the country’s defense. This declaration highlights the persistent and complex security challenges facing Lebanon amid broader geopolitical rivalries in the Middle East.
Naim Qassem Warns of Existential Danger Posed by US and Israeli Actions in Lebanon
Naim Qassem, the deputy secretary-general of Hezbollah, issued a stark warning concerning the escalating pressures exerted by the United States and Israel on Lebanon. He emphasized that these actions threaten the very fabric of the nation’s sovereignty and security, framing the situation as an existential danger to Lebanon. According to Qassem, the continued political and military interference aims not only to destabilize Lebanon internally but also to undermine Hezbollah’s role as a key resistance force in the region.
In his address, Qassem categorically rejected any notion of Hezbollah relinquishing its military arsenal. He highlighted that the organization’s right to bear arms is rooted in the defense of Lebanon against aggression and occupation. Key points from his statement include:
- Hezbollah’s weapons serve as a deterrent against external threats.
- Pressure tactics by the US and Israel will not weaken Hezbollah’s resolve.
- National sovereignty must be preserved amid foreign meddling.
- Internal unity is essential to withstand ongoing challenges.
| Key Threat | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Economic Sanctions | Worsening humanitarian crisis |
| Military Escalations | Heightened regional instability |
| Political Pressure | Weakening government cohesion |
Hezbollah’s Commitment to Retaining Arms as a Defensive Measure Emphasized
Hezbollah’s leadership continues to assert that its arsenal is essential for Lebanon’s sovereignty and security amidst ongoing threats. Naim Qassem, the party’s deputy secretary general, reiterated that disarming would leave Lebanon vulnerable to external aggression, particularly from US and Israeli forces. He emphasized that the weapons they possess are strictly for defensive purposes, safeguarding the nation from existential dangers that conventional military forces cannot adequately address.
The organization highlights several key reasons for maintaining its armed capability:
- Deterrence against invasion: Preventing hostile incursions into Lebanese territory
- Protection of Lebanese communities: Ensuring civilian safety amid regional instability
- Preservation of political independence: Resisting foreign interference
- Support of resistance movements: Aligning with broader anti-occupation efforts
| Threat Source | Hezbollah’s Defensive Role |
|---|---|
| US Policies | Counterbalance influence and protect sovereignty |
| Israeli Military | Deterrence against airstrikes and incursions |
| Internal Stability | Prevent sectarian violence and maintain order |
Calls for Regional Dialogue and International Pressure to Address Security Concerns
The escalating threats from the US and Israel have prompted urgent appeals for a comprehensive regional dialogue aimed at defusing tensions and ensuring Lebanon’s sovereignty. Experts and political figures alike stress the need for constructive engagement among neighboring states to address mounting security concerns without further destabilizing the fragile landscape. In this context, international actors are urged to exert diplomatic pressure, advocating for restraint and balanced solutions that prioritize peace and stability over confrontation.
Key demands emerging from these calls include:
- Initiation of multilateral talks involving Lebanon’s immediate neighbors and global stakeholders
- Implementation of confidence-building measures to reduce military provocations along borders
- Support for Lebanon’s right to self-defense while encouraging disarmament negotiations under international supervision
| Actor | Role | Expected Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Lebanese Government | Facilitator | Coordinate dialogue efforts internally |
| Regional States | Stakeholders | Engage in genuine dialogue |
| International Community | Pressure Agents | Promote diplomatic solutions |
The Conclusion
In a stark declaration that underscores the ongoing tension in the region, Naim Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s resolute stance on maintaining its arms as a critical element of Lebanon’s defense against what he described as an existential threat posed by the US and Israel. As the geopolitical landscape remains fraught with uncertainty, Qassem’s comments highlight the enduring complexities that continue to shape Lebanon’s security dynamics and the broader Middle East conflict. Observers will be watching closely to see how these tensions evolve amid calls for dialogue and stability in the region.
