Hezbollah declares victory following ceasefire in Lebanon-Israel conflict
Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem addressed the nation on Friday, two days after a ceasefire brought an end to a two-month conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.
Describing the outcome as a “major victory,” Sheikh Qassem emphasized that the group successfully thwarted Israeli efforts to dismantle the Resistance.
In his speech, Sheikh Qassem highlighted that the conflict, referred to as the "Formidable in Might" battle, demonstrated Hezbollah's resilience and effectiveness. He claimed the group not only prevented Israel from achieving its objectives but also placed the Israeli military on the defensive.
Sheikh Qassem asserted that Israel had planned to eradicate Hezbollah and reshape the region, but these plans were derailed. He credited the group’s preparedness and the strategies of Hezbollah’s leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, for the Resistance’s success.
He noted that the war caused significant disruption within Israel, with the number of displaced residents rising from 70,000 to hundreds of thousands. He also praised Hezbollah fighters for their “legendary steadfastness” and sacrifices during the conflict.
Sheikh Qassem described the ceasefire as a procedural implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, focusing on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from areas south of the Litani River. He affirmed that coordination between the Lebanese Army and Hezbollah would remain strong to ensure the agreement's implementation.
“This victory belongs to everyone who supported the Resistance,” Qassem stated, extending gratitude to martyrs, fighters, civil defense teams, and displaced civilians who endured the conflict.
He expressed appreciation to regional allies, particularly Iran, for its support during the conflict. He specifically acknowledged the guidance of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the contributions of the late General Qassem Soleimani of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Qassem pledged to focus on reconstruction efforts, promising dignified shelter for displaced individuals and cooperation with international partners willing to assist Lebanon. He also called for unity among political forces to rebuild national institutions, including ensuring the timely election of a president.
He concluded by reaffirming Hezbollah’s commitment to resistance and Lebanon’s sovereignty, expressing pride in the resilience of its people and the sacrifices made during the conflict. (ILKHA)