Hezbollah Leader Threatens New Attack on Tel Aviv Following IDF Operations in Lebanon
The leader of Hezbollah, Naim Qassem, threatened a new attack on the center of Tel Aviv during a speech on Wednesday. His statement follows recent Israeli military actions that resulted in the deaths of several Hezbollah members in Beirut, including spokesperson Mohammed Afif and four associates.
Qassem declared, “Israel attacked the heart of Beirut, so it must expect a response in the center of Tel Aviv.” He previously held the position of deputy secretary-general but took the lead after the assassination of Hasán Nasralá during an Israeli attack in Beirut.
Hezbollah has faced a period of “confusion” after Nasralá’s death, as he led the group for over thirty years. Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah’s primary fight against Israel supports the Palestinian cause. However, he indicated that the group has initiated a military campaign called “The Battle of the Brave” aimed at confronting Israeli aggression against Lebanon.
Qassem also acknowledged the receipt of a “negotiation document,” which Hezbollah will review. He stated that key conditions for the group include a total ceasefire and the preservation of Lebanon’s sovereignty.
Hezbollah demands a complete end to aggression and reaffirms that Israel cannot freely enter Lebanese territory. Qassem asserted, “Israel cannot defeat us or impose its conditions.” The U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein recently wrapped up a two-day visit to Beirut to negotiate a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah.
How does Naim Qassem view the role of U.S. involvement in the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire with Israel?
Interview with Naim Qassem, Deputy Secretary-General of Hezbollah
News Directory 3: Thank you, Mr. Qassem, for taking the time to speak with us today. Your recent remarks regarding a new attack on Tel Aviv have raised many questions. Can you elaborate on your statement about expecting a response in Tel Aviv after Israel’s actions in Beirut?
Naim Qassem: Yes, of course. The recent Israeli attack on the heart of Beirut resulted in the loss of several Hezbollah members, including our spokesperson, Mohammed Afif. Our response is tailored to the gravity of their aggression. When they target Beirut, they should expect repercussions in their own territory, particularly in their bustling center, Tel Aviv.
News Directory 3: After the assassination of Hasán Nasralá, Hezbollah appears to be in a transition. Can you describe how the group is managing this period of confusion and the transition in leadership?
Naim Qassem: It is true that the group has felt the absence of Nasralá, who led us expertly for over three decades. However, our commitment to our core mission remains unshaken. I am dedicated to unifying our efforts to face the challenges ahead. We recognize that we must adapt our strategies to continue our fight, which primarily supports the Palestinian cause.
News Directory 3: You mentioned a new military campaign, “The Battle of the Brave.” What are its goals and how do you envision its impact?
Naim Qassem: “The Battle of the Brave” is our strategic initiative to confront ongoing Israeli aggression toward Lebanon. Our primary objective is to demonstrate our resilience and readiness to protect our sovereignty. We believe that this campaign will not only strengthen our position but will also rally support for the Palestinian struggle, emphasizing that our fight is one of justice and dignity.
News Directory 3: You also referenced a “negotiation document” received from the U.S. What are Hezbollah’s critical conditions for any ceasefire?
Naim Qassem: Hezbollah’s condition is straightforward: a total ceasefire and the assurance of Lebanese sovereignty. We will not accept any intrusion or aggression from Israel, and we expect the same commitment from them. Our feedback on this document was submitted to U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, who seems keen to mediate a resolution.
News Directory 3: What are your views on U.S. involvement in these negotiations and the potential for a ceasefire?
Naim Qassem: The U.S. seems to be attempting to facilitate some dialogue, and Hochstein’s visit reflects that. However, the seriousness of a ceasefire depends largely on Israel’s actions and their commitment to peace. It ultimately hinges on Prime Minister Netanyahu’s willingness to engage constructively.
News Directory 3: Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, have stated that any ceasefire must allow Israel to act against Hezbollah if necessary. How do you respond to that position?
Naim Qassem: That stance is problematic. If they seek a ceasefire, it must be a genuine cessation of hostilities, not a pretext for future aggression. We will not allow Israel to dictate our terms or our security. History has shown that they cannot defeat us or impose their conditions unilaterally.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Mr. Qassem, for sharing your insights. Your perspectives on these vital issues provide much-needed clarity during this tumultuous time.
Naim Qassem: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important matters. We remain committed to the protection of Lebanon and the Palestinian cause.
Hochstein mentioned a “real opportunity” to end hostilities and planned to visit Israel “to try to finalize this if possible.” In Beirut, he engaged with the Lebanese parliament’s president, Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally involved in mediation efforts.
Qassem revealed that Hezbollah has provided feedback on the American document to Hochstein. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that any ceasefire agreement must allow Israel to act against Hezbollah if necessary.
Qassem emphasized that a ceasefire hinges on Israel’s response and the seriousness of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamín Netanyahu.