Hezbollah Chief Demands Israel's Unconditional Withdrawal From Lebanon

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem has insisted that Israel must withdraw completely from all Lebanese territory, declaring that the group will not accept any arrangement that falls short of a full Israeli exit. Speaking during Ashura commemorations on Friday, Qassem addressed thousands of supporters gathered in Beirut's southern suburbs, where Hezbollah and Iranian flags were displayed in one of the group's largest public events since the conflict erupted earlier this year. He maintained that Israel had "no option" but to leave Lebanese land unconditionally and rejected any move toward normalising relations or ending the long-standing hostility between the two sides.

Qassem also described the recent Iran-US agreement aimed at reducing regional tensions as a political setback for both Washington and Israel, while expressing appreciation for Tehran's continued support of Hezbollah. His remarks came as Lebanese and Israeli officials continue indirect negotiations in Washington aimed at easing tensions. Although a ceasefire announced this month has reduced hostilities, Lebanese authorities reported that Israeli strikes earlier this week killed six people. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks on Israel in March, prompting Israeli airstrikes and a ground offensive. Lebanese officials say more than 4,200 people have been killed since the fighting began. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Qassem said Hezbollah would not support any agreement that grants political or strategic concessions to Israel. Among those attending the Ashura ceremony was Abeer Ayash, a resident who said she lost her home and several relatives during the conflict. She expressed continued support for Hezbollah's resistance and paid tribute to former leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iran's leadership, pledging that supporters would remain committed to the group's cause.

#UTVAfrica#