Beirut

Naim Qassem, Secretary-General of Hezbollah, on Wednesday delivered a strongly worded televised address, declaring that the group has chosen confrontation over compromise amid escalating tensions in the region.

Describing the situation as a decisive moment for Lebanon, Qassem said the country faces a stark choice between surrendering its sovereignty or resisting what he called external aggression. He framed the ongoing conflict as a struggle to protect Lebanon’s territorial integrity and future.

According to a report by Press TV, the Hezbollah chief argued that the group’s actions have prevented surprise attacks and removed justifications for further military escalation by Israel. He praised Hezbollah fighters for their resilience, calling them symbols of sacrifice, patriotism, and national pride.

Qassem also acknowledged the hardships faced by civilians, especially those displaced by the conflict, commending their endurance and commitment to the country’s future.

He warned of what he described as a broader regional agenda involving the Israel and the United States, alleging expansionist ambitions that threaten neighbouring nations, including Lebanon. He further accused Israel of repeatedly violating ceasefire agreements since late 2024.

Calling for unity within Lebanon, Qassem urged political factions to set aside internal differences and work together to confront external threats. He also appealed to the government to reconsider policies that, in his view, restrict armed resistance, arguing that such measures could weaken the country’s defence.

Rejecting the idea of negotiations under current conditions, he stated that engaging in talks during active conflict would amount to surrender.

Highlighting the wider regional context, Qassem referred to Iran’s stance against Western and Israeli pressure, calling it an example of resistance. He said developments in the region are interconnected and have implications for Lebanon’s security.

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The address comes as Hezbollah has reportedly stepped up operations since the escalation of hostilities in late February, claiming to have targeted Israeli positions in areas such as Haifa, Nahariya, and Kiryat Shmona, thereby increasing pressure on Israeli forces.