Why it matters:
The remarks come amid escalating regional tensions and follow the assassination of a prominent Hezbollah commander, a move that, according to Qassem, was intended to weaken the group's military capacity and morale but ultimately reinforced its determination.
What he's saying:
Sheikh Naim Qassem stated that the killing of Haitham Ali al‑Tabatabai was aimed at weakening Hezbollah’s battlefield leadership and reconstruction capability, as well as breaking the movement’s spirit. He said the attack was “clear aggression and a crime,” adding that Hezbollah reserves the right to retaliate and will choose the timing itself. Qassem also revealed that Israeli infiltrators within Hezbollah were arrested the previous night and emphasized that the group continues to rebuild its capabilities while learning from mistakes.
Sheikh Naim Qassem expressed his gratitude for the messages of condolence received from political and party leaders both within Lebanon and abroad, extending special thanks to Iran, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and senior Iranian officials.
He also said the November 2024 ceasefire marked a victory for the resistance and the Lebanese people, arguing that Israel accepted the ceasefire because it failed to destroy Hezbollah. He credited the achievement to the sacrifices of frontline fighters, the support of allies, the steadfastness of the Lebanese public, and the role of the Lebanese Army.
Key points:
• Qassem said the assassination did not achieve its objective of weakening Hezbollah.
• Hezbollah asserts it will decide the timing and form of its response.
• Israeli infiltrators inside Hezbollah were arrested, according to Qassem.
• The Lebanese government, he said, is now responsible for ensuring full withdrawal of occupying forces and deploying the Lebanese Army.
Go deeper:
Qassem’s remarks reflect Hezbollah’s effort to frame the recent escalation as part of a longer struggle with Israel, positioning the resistance as resilient despite targeted assassinations. His emphasis on external support, internal unity, and the group’s evolving military posture suggests Hezbollah is preparing for a sustained phase of confrontation while asserting political leverage over Lebanon’s next steps following the ceasefire.
ahmad shirzadian - ahmad shirzadian
