WANA (Mar 13) – Sheikh Naeem Qassem, the Secretary-General of Hezbollah, declared that the resistance forces are ready for a long battle and will surprise Israel on the battlefield.

 

In a speech delivered on the occasion of World Quds Day, Sheikh Naeem Qassem addressed the ongoing regional developments in his latest speech, emphasizing the significant role of the Islamic Republic of Iran in supporting Palestine and the resistance efforts in Lebanon.

 

Qassem praised Iran for its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating that Iran has sacrificed “its most valuable assets” in this struggle. He highlighted the “martyrdom” of Ayatollah Khamenei as the latest sacrifice by Iran in its support for Palestine.

 

Qassem also pointed out that the idea of World Quds Day, introduced by Iran’s founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, is not only a call for the liberation of Jerusalem but also a global movement of the oppressed against imperialist powers.

 

He underscored that this day represents a call for the freedom of Palestine and the liberation of all oppressed nations around the world. Without Iran’s continuous support and sacrifices, he argued, Palestine would not have achieved its current position in the fight against occupation.

 

Turning to the situation in Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem affirmed that the country is currently engaged in “legitimate defense” against Israeli aggression. He noted that these clashes have emerged after months of continuous attacks from Israel, and Hezbollah views this as a fight to defend Lebanon’s land and dignity.

 

He explained that over the past 15 months, Lebanon has faced widespread Israeli attacks, with Hezbollah repeatedly warning that the status quo could not continue indefinitely. Initially, Hezbollah refrained from military action, due to political considerations and requests from some parties to allow more time for diplomatic efforts. However, with escalating tensions and recent developments, Hezbollah determined the time had come to respond to Israeli aggression.

 

Qassem stressed that from Hezbollah’s perspective, “there is no solution but resistance,” and Lebanon must continue to resist in order to avoid serious threats from Israel. He pointed out that Hezbollah has learned from recent battles, and now Israel is no longer capable of achieving its objectives.

 

He described the ongoing conflict as an “existential battle” for Lebanon, stating that without resistance, Israel could easily enter Lebanese cities and carry out any actions it desired. Despite the challenges, Qassem assured that Hezbollah will continue its struggle, emphasizing that there is no possibility of surrender or defeat.

 

He concluded by reaffirming that Hezbollah is committed to defending Lebanon and its sovereignty, with the support of both the Lebanese people and “the freedom-loving people of the world.”