Beirut: Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem marked the anniversary of the martyrdom of Iran's General Qassem Suleimani and Iraq's PMF deputy commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, highlighting Suleimani's role as a model of the Islamic humanitarian project.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem stated that Suleimani's mission was to support resistance movements and counter US plots, with Iran leading efforts to back resistance and support justice.
Sheikh Qassem praised the Palestinian people's sacrifices in resisting aggression and emphasized Lebanon's role as a model of sacrifice, dignity, and liberation through its resistance, people, and army. He also commended the Yemeni and Iraqi peoples for supporting justice and confronting aggression, noting that Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was targeted for his role in defeating ISIL in Iraq.
Sheikh Qassem asserted that the killing of martyrs would not halt their movement but rather strengthen it. He stated that the West created 'Israel' to exert cultural and economic dominance over the region, and Iran's revolution challenged this control. He emphasized that Iran's support for resistance movements is driven by shared principles rather than political or economic interests.
He further clarified that Iran provides unconditional support to resistance movements, contrasting with colonial powers that intervene for their own gains. Sheikh Qassem highlighted Iran's giving nature and criticized those who submit to US control or justify Israeli occupation.
The commitment of Hezbollah to a sovereign, free, and capable Lebanon was reiterated by Sheikh Qassem. He expressed support for building a fair state, combating corruption, and rejecting occupation, while advocating for dialogue, consensus, and national unity against enemies.
Sheikh Qassem outlined Lebanon's primary objectives, including halting aggression, securing Israeli withdrawal, reconstruction, and the return of captives. He urged adherence to the parliamentary election schedule and emphasized the importance of returning depositors' funds, arming the Lebanese army, and addressing public sector workers' rights.
Finally, Sheikh Qassem extended greetings to Muslims on the Birthday of Imam Ali (A.S.), affirming the blessings of loyalty to the Commander of the Faithful.