Sheikh Qassem Asserts Hezbollah’s Ongoing Military Battle Amid Negotiations.

Beirut: In a televised address, Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem declared that the group will persist in its military engagement alongside ongoing negotiations, emphasizing that the Resistance will ultimately thwart the Zionist enemy's objectives. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem paid tribute to the late Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, who played a significant role in leading Hezbollah's Executive Council, which oversees educational, social, economic, and medical matters. Sheikh Qassem accused Israel of aggression against Beirut, citing the assassination of Martyr Hajj Mohammad Afif, a prominent figure in jihadi and resistance media, and Head of Hezbollah Media Relations Department. He warned that any aggression on Beirut would result in repercussions for Central Tel Aviv. Despite the painful Israeli strikes, Sheikh Qassem assured that Hezbollah remains formidable, with a robust cadre ready for challenges. He expressed gratitude for the condolences offered on the martyrdo m of Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah and congratulatory messages on the appointment of a new Secretary General. Sheikh Qassem reiterated Hezbollah's support for Gaza, acknowledging Lebanon's constraints and highlighting the support received from Iraq, Yemen, and Iran. Sheikh Qassem revealed that Hezbollah had accepted a ceasefire proposal by Biden and Macron, only for the Israeli enemy to assassinate the Secretary General. He stated that Hezbollah has regained strength across all domains since the assassination and has been engaged in the "Formidable in Might" Battle against the Zionist war on Lebanon. Addressing reports of Israeli incursions into South Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah, though not a conventional army, confronts the enemy wherever it advances, and that Israel's losses are apparent. He affirmed that Israel will not succeed in defeating Hezbollah or imposing terms on Lebanon, as the Islamic Resistance is prepared for a prolonged conflict. Sheikh Qassem also touched on Hezbollah's stanc e regarding Hochstein's proposal to the Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, noting that the group will not disclose its observations publicly but will continue its military struggle alongside negotiations. He praised the Islamic Resistance fighters and supporters, highlighting their steadfast support as a model for embracing resistance. In conclusion, Sheikh Qassem stressed Hezbollah's commitment to contributing to Lebanon's presidential elections and public life within the framework of the Taif Accord, aiming to protect and build the nation through simultaneous engagement in resistance and politics.