Hezbollah strikes occupied Tel Aviv in retaliation for zionist assaults on Beirut: Sheikh Qassem

In a televised address on Wednesday, Sheikh Naim Qassem commented on recent Israeli airstrikes that have heavily impacted three central districts of Beirut. These attacks have resulted in the death of Hezbollah’s media chief, Mohammad Afif, along with four of his team members.

Sheikh Qassem asserted that the regime was responsible for the martyrdom of Afif, emphasizing that he was located at a “civilian, media, and political site that should be safeguarded in such situations.”

In a statement reflecting escalating tensions, a spokesperson warned that Israel’s actions, which included attacks and targeted operations in the heart of Beirut, could prompt retaliatory measures in central Tel Aviv. The spokesperson emphasized that the Israeli capital would not remain unscathed if Israeli forces continued their operations in Beirut.

Hezbollah Gears Up for Prolonged Conflict

Sheikh Qassem highlighted Hezbollah’s resilience in crisis management, noting that following the assassination of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the group required only ten days to regain its footing.

The party encountered a significant crisis following the assassination of Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. However, within a span of ten days, the organization managed to stabilize and initiated the process of recovery.

He stressed the group’s unwavering commitment to the defense of Lebanon.

In a resolute statement today, officials in Lebanon reaffirmed their commitment to defending the nation and its citizens against what they describe as ongoing Israeli occupation. The declaration emphasized that resistance remains the primary strategy for achieving Israeli withdrawal, underscoring a continued dedication to this approach. Leaders expressed confidence that their perseverance will ultimately succeed, with assurances of continued efforts, God willing.

He announced that the movement has been preparing for a prolonged struggle against the Zionist regime.

“He stated that they were presented with a choice between submission and humiliation, but emphasized that humiliation was unthinkable for them.”

“The results are contingent upon developments on the ground, with the resistance demonstrating the capability to sustain a prolonged conflict.”

He commended the resilience of the resistance movement in enduring Israeli hostilities, highlighting that the group’s counterattacks have resulted in the displacement of hundreds of settlers from the northern occupied regions.

“We will persist on the battlefield and continue our efforts regardless of the expense. We are committed to increasing the adversary’s costs, countering their aggression, and maintaining our defensive position.”

He stated that Hezbollah does not function like conventional military forces; instead, its role is to resist the enemy’s progression rather than to halt their advance.

The focus should not be on which villages were breached by the enemy but rather on the significant number of enemy casualties and the strategic locations where our forces engaged them.

The leader of Hezbollah has declared that, despite the ongoing turmoil in Lebanon, the militant organization remains committed to providing support to Palestinians in Gaza.

“We take pride in joining Iraq, Yemen, and Iran in offering support to Gaza, as much of the international community remains inactive.”

**’Israel Unable to Set Conditions’**

In reference to ceasefire discussions, he stated that hostilities will continue unabated during the negotiation process.

“We are currently pursuing a dual approach: actively engaging in escalating military operations while simultaneously engaging in diplomatic negotiations. The advancement of our military efforts will continue unabated even as discussions are underway.”

Sheikh Qassem has stated that Israel is unable to enforce its terms on Hezbollah, emphasizing that the organization will reject any ceasefire that undermines Lebanese sovereignty.

He stated that Israel is unable to secure a victory over them or enforce its terms upon them.

“The occupiers anticipated that they could secure through diplomatic negotiations what they failed to achieve on the battlefield, a prospect deemed unattainable.”

Sheikh Qassem emphasized Hezbollah’s goal for a “total and comprehensive cessation of hostilities,” while asserting the priority of “safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty.” He further remarked, “The Israeli adversary cannot encroach upon Lebanese territory at will.”

According to reports, Hezbollah has conducted a review and offered its feedback on a ceasefire proposal drafted by the United States, aimed at halting hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.

“We have reviewed the document and provided our comments.”

Sheikh Qassem stated that both his remarks and those of Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri have been conveyed to the U.S. envoy.

The leader of Hezbollah suggested that the implementation of a ceasefire is contingent upon Israel’s reaction.

The prospects for these negotiations quickly resulting in a ceasefire and halting the aggression remain uncertain, as any progress is contingent upon Israel’s reaction and the level of commitment demonstrated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a speech delivered shortly after the conclusion of US envoy Amos Hochstein’s two-day diplomatic mission in Beirut aimed at securing a ceasefire agreement, Sheikh Qassem addressed the ongoing situation.

Hochstein expressed optimism about a significant chance to halt the hostilities, revealing his plans to travel to the Israeli-occupied territories with the aim of facilitating a resolution to the conflict.

During his visit to Beirut, he held two meetings with Nabih Berri, an ally of Hezbollah who has been spearheading mediation efforts on behalf of Lebanon.

Since October 2023, the number of fatalities resulting from Israeli actions in Lebanon has exceeded 3,500, while the injuries are reported to have surpassed 15,000, according to recent figures.