Deputy Secretary-General of Hezbollah, Sheikh Naim Qassem, has stated that the resistance cannot remain passive in the face of expanding Israeli aggression.
In an interview with NBC News on April 19, 2024, he emphasized readiness for confrontation, stating, “If ‘Israel’ attacks Lebanon, we will respond. If they escalate, so will we. We do not seek a major war, but we will not tolerate Israeli aggression exceeding current limits. If they intensify attacks, our response will match. If they target Al-Aqsa, we will respond in kind and more.”
Sheikh Qassim emphasized Hezbollah’s commitment to supporting Gaza through strategic actions, such as displacing Israeli settlers, causing material losses, and diverting Israeli forces.
He reiterated that Hezbollah would not initiate a comprehensive war unless Israel forced the region into it.
Regarding the ongoing conflict on the Lebanese-Palestinian border, Sheikh Qassim emphasized the importance of Hezbollah’s contribution to Gaza and Palestine through controlled engagement. He noted Islamic world support for Hezbollah and Gaza, citing significant sympathy and solidarity.
Sheikh Qassim criticized the United States’ involvement in the conflict, holding the American administration accountable for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He dismissed Biden’s rhetoric as hypocritical and accused the US of losing global standing due to its support for Israel’s actions.
In response to Iranian actions following an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria, Sheikh Qassim highlighted Iran’s goal to strike back at ‘Israel’, which was achieved through missile launches.
He warned against underestimating the resolve of Muslim resistance, emphasizing that surrender is not an option for those committed to their cause.
Source: NBC news (edited by Al-Manar)
