Hezbollah Deputy Chief Declares Continued Resistance Against Israeli-American Plans in the Middle East

BEIRUT: Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem delivered a resolute speech on national television, asserting the group's continued resistance against what he described as Israeli-American schemes in the Middle East. Sheikh Qassem emphasized the unwavering commitment of Hezbollah to support Palestine and resist Israeli expansion, which he claims is backed by the United States. According to National News Agency-Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem's address highlighted the enduring influence of the late Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, whose principles he declared as foundational for the resistance's ongoing struggle. "Your positions are our constitution, your words are the light of our path, and your discourse is the foundation of our journey," Sheikh Qassem quoted, signaling the deep reverence for Nasrallah's legacy within the organization. Throughout his speech, Sheikh Qassem accused Israel of being an expansionist state, supported unconditionally by the United States, posing a signifi cant threat not only to Lebanon but also globally. He framed the conflict as part of a broader Israeli-American vision for a new Middle East, which he vehemently opposed. "If it weren't for America, the Great Satan, Israel would not have been able to maintain its current control," he stated, encapsulating the perceived adversarial role of the U.S. in regional politics. The deputy secretary-general also revealed that foreign ambassadors had approached Hezbollah leadership, pressing them to cease their support for Gaza, which further complicates the geopolitical tension in the region. In defiance, Sheikh Qassem reiterated Hezbollah's commitment to the Palestinian cause, describing their support as a stance for justice. Sheikh Qassem's address also covered the recent operational strategies and outcomes of the resistance, noting significant achievements against Israeli forces in recent weeks. He highlighted the new phase of confrontation that began on September 17, transitioning from mere support to active enga gement against Israeli aggression. "The mission of the resistance is to pursue the army and conduct operations against it wherever it advances," he detailed, describing a proactive resistance strategy. Concluding his speech, Sheikh Qassem addressed the displaced Lebanese citizens, promising a return to their homes rebuilt 'more beautiful than before,' signaling a hopeful yet defiant stance against the ongoing conflict.