Hezbollah’s Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem addressed a broad range of issues, emphasizing the resilience of Hezbollah, its commitment to confronting occupation, and the unwavering spirit of its people.
In an exclusive interview with Al Manar on Sunday, His Eminence stated, “The people of the resistance are the noblest and most honorable. Now, I understand even more the relationship between Sayyed Nasrallah and the people—it is beyond words.”
A Divine Funeral Procession
Sheikh Qassem noted that the decision to delay the funeral due to security concerns was ultimately shaped by unfolding circumstances.
“After Sayyed Nasrallah’s martyrdom, there was coordination with Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, and we agreed to postpone the funeral to safeguard the people. As time passed, the situation necessitated further delays. The turnout was unparalleled. I felt that the people were declaring, ‘We remain loyal to you, Sayyed Nasrallah.’ Resistance is not merely a phase—it is a deeply rooted belief embraced by men and women, young and old,” His Eminence affirmed.
Sheikh Qassem described the funeral as more than a farewell—it was a pledge of loyalty to the resistance. “This procession bridged the past and future. The people weren’t just mourning; they were renewing their commitment.”
He praised Hezbollah’s steadfast supporters, recalling families who had lost loved ones yet remained resolute. “One woman gave three martyrs, two sons-in-law, and two grandchildren—ready to sacrifice more. Another offered her only son and stood prepared to give again. Who can defeat such a people? They stand firm, always ahead of their enemies, defying every conspiracy.”
Unwavering Support
Sheikh Qassem highlighted the massive turnout, with 20,000 organizers managing the funeral. He thanked Iraq, Iran, Palestine, Yemen, Tunisia, and all who stood in solidarity, noting that “even when flight paths were blocked, Iranian delegations still found a way to attend.”
Sheikh Qassem rejected claims that the resistance had been weakened. “Beirut’s Camille Chamoun Sports City was packed by 6 a.m. This funeral was a defining moment. People can say what they want about victory or defeat—every major event holds meaning, from resisting aggression to the Battle of the Mighty Warriors and our strategic patience against Israeli attacks.”
Sayyed Nasrallah and Leadership Transition
He recalled his last meeting with Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on September 18, 2024, and their final phone call on September 21, 2024.
“After Sayyed Nasrallah’s assassination, I spoke with Sayyed Hashem Safieddine about the burial and leadership transition. I proposed that he take on the role of secretary general. But before any formal announcement, Sayyed Hashem was also martyred. When I heard of his assassination, it felt like an earthquake—my life turned upside down. Yet, I felt no fear or hesitation, only divine guidance,” Sheikh Qassem asserted.
Resistance Capabilities and Readiness
Sheikh Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s military strength. “After Sayyed Hashem’s martyrdom, I contacted our military leadership and asked to be briefed on what remains—not what we lost. Hezbollah’s structure is vast, and our capabilities are immense. Despite security challenges, we quickly regained control, conducted internal investigations, and held accountable those responsible for lapses.”
His Eminence revealed that Hezbollah had adjusted its battlefield strategies, reaching an agreement with its military leadership on targeting enemy positions, including strikes on the occupied city of Tel Aviv. “Had the enemy been able to advance on the ground, they would have done so—not just towards southern Lebanon but beyond, as they did in 1982 when they invaded Beirut.”
Israeli Enemy’s Defeat and the Power of Resistance
Sheikh Qassem highlighted the direct hits on Israeli targets, including the occupied city of Tel Aviv and Zionist Prime Minister Netanyahu’s residence, as a turning point. “The Israeli enemy sought negotiations after realizing our capabilities. We did not enter these talks from a position of weakness. We never wanted this war, but when the enemy asked for a ceasefire, we negotiated while fully capable of continuing the fight.”
His Eminence emphasized Hezbollah’s precision in targeting military sites, avoiding non-military targets despite having the ability to strike them. “We chose to focus on military objectives to deny the Israeli enemy any excuse to escalate its crimes further.”
Resistance: A Path of Sacrifice and Victory
Addressing concerns about the resistance’s future, Sheikh Qassem affirmed, “The resistance is strong and ongoing, though it has endured sacrifices. Could anyone expect it to continue without them? Yes, we have made great sacrifices, but we understand that facing “Israel”, the US, and their allies requires paying a price. We are up against a massive force that has used every means of brutality against the resistance in Palestine and Lebanon.”
His Eminence emphasized the heavy toll on the Israeli enemy, both militarily and economically. “Their casualties are mounting, their economy is strained, and their forces are suffering significant losses. This confirms that the resistance remains steadfast.”
No Secret Agreements in the Ceasefire Deal
Hezbollah’s Sheikh Qassem rejected claims of secret clauses in the ceasefire agreement. “The deal explicitly mentions ‘south of the Litani River’ five times. This is the framework we adhere to.”
He dismissed speculation about US-Israeli side agreements, affirming that the ceasefire falls under UN Resolution 1701. “During the 60-day period, the Israeli occupation committed multiple violations. The Lebanese army has repeatedly expressed readiness to deploy, but the Israeli enemy has blocked it.”
His Eminence warned of the broader Zionist project, citing Israeli violations, including the presence of rabbis at contested sites. “This is not just about aggression; it’s part of a larger expansionist agenda.”
Resistance Will Not Back Down
Sheikh Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to resisting occupation. “If the Israeli enemy continues its occupation, it will face resistance from the army, the people, and the resistance. Some believe diplomacy alone can achieve liberation—but history proves otherwise. Resistance is what forced the Israeli occupation out of southern Lebanon in 2000.”
“We live in this land together, and we will continue to defend it together. Has Israel’s brutality silenced some voices? No matter—the resistance will never stop, and we will never surrender,” Sheikh Qassem emphasized.
His Eminence pointed out that the Lebanese foreign minister provides the Israeli enemy with excuses to continue its aggression and should demand an end to the occupation. He also condemned Israeli attacks on civilians, affirming that the resistance will never stop and will continue to defend the homeland.
Hezbollah’s Unyielding Values
Sheikh Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah remains unwavering in its core principles and beliefs, which guide its actions in response to changing circumstances.
“We are committed to the principles of Wilaya (leadership) and the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (AS) and carry the true Islamic values, as taught by Imam Khomeini and Imam Khamenei. Our goal is to elevate our society by strengthening our relationship with Imam Mahdi and adhering to authentic Islamic teachings.”
He reiterated that Hezbollah is deeply committed to the liberation of the land and resisting the Israeli occupation’s expansionist agenda, which threatens not just Palestine but the entire region. “Our mission is not only to help the Palestinians liberate their land but also to protect our own. We will stand with them as part of our broader national interest.”
Hezbollah’s Commitment to Lebanon’s Future
On the subject of Lebanon’s internal situation, Sheikh Qassem affirmed Hezbollah’s dedication to building a capable and just state. “We believe in the creation of a state that is capable of securing the people’s interests. Our participation in the parliamentary and municipal elections was an integral part of this vision, and it reflects our pioneering experience,” His Eminence stated.
He also acknowledged the invaluable role of martyrs in guiding Hezbollah’s direction, saying, “The martyrs, especially Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah, serve as our school and our compass.”
Sheikh Qassem stressed that Hezbollah’s resistance will not waver. “When we say the resistance continues, we mean it remains strong in the field. The youth of the Resistance Force are still present and active, showing that the resistance is alive and unwavering.”
He highlighted that Hezbollah’s core principles remain unchanged, even as tactical approaches may adapt to the circumstances. “We are in a new phase, but our foundational principles are constant. The resistance will not fade, for without it, Lebanon would cease to exist.”
Sheikh Qassem also touched on Hezbollah’s strategic patience, noting, “Even in occupied areas, the resistance will find a way. We will wait for the right time.”
On the evolving balance of power, he remarked, “There are new equations emerging today, but we will not allow them to solidify in favor of Israeli interests. Instead, we will work to ensure these equations protect our future.”
He assured the Lebanese people to remain calm and confident, as their leaders and youth possess the strength, intelligence, and faith to act at the right time. “The resistance today is stronger and more heroic than ever before, for we are patient. No one believes it’s a defeat; it’s a decision because our presence and capabilities are intact.”
Hezbollah’s Response to US Pressure
“The US is putting great pressure on us, using its regional tools. But we will face this challenge in the appropriate manner.”
He responded to US efforts to exclude Hezbollah from the Lebanese government, stating, “Despite American opposition, we are part of the government, and we will continue to act in Lebanon’s best interests.”
On the normalization issue, he made clear, “Normalization with certain countries is not our concern. Those who choose this path will pay a price with the US and the Israeli enemy, as the enemy will always demand more.”
Strengthening Lebanon’s Ties with Iran and Internal Reforms
He also reiterated the importance of the relationship with Iran, calling it “a friendly nation that provides us with much-needed support.” Sheikh Qassem voiced Hezbollah’s commitment to continuing collaboration with the Lebanese state on various issues, including reopening direct flights with Iran and working to address Lebanon’s internal challenges.
Regarding Lebanon’s internal political affairs, he stressed, “We want to rebuild our country and resolve its problems. We support the establishment of mechanisms to appoint officials based on merit and transparency.”
He reaffirmed Hezbollah’s critical role in Lebanon’s political landscape, saying, “Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, along with our allies, represent a significant part of Lebanon, and we cannot be sidelined in any political appointments.”
“We collaborated with others during the presidential elections and government formation. It’s too early to evaluate our relationship with the Prime Minister, but with the President, there is positive rapport. Our focus is on rebuilding the country and addressing its issues.”
Sheikh Qassem also expressed hope for “a mechanism to select general directors through a competitive exam, choosing from three successful candidates,” urging everyone to “wait for the adopted process to provide their input.”
Hezbollah’s Stance on Weaponry and Defense
Sheikh Qassem reiterated Hezbollah’s firm stance on weaponry, emphasizing that weapons should be exclusively in the hands of Lebanon’s army and internal security forces. “We reject the logic of militias,” he said, reaffirming that Hezbollah sees the Israeli occupation as a threat to Lebanon.
“We have no issue with the army and the state defending Lebanon; resistance must continue to protect our land. We do not consider the President’s statement on exclusive weapon ownership as directed at us.”
Sheikh Qassem pointed out that every war has been started by the Israeli enemy, and if we can prevent the Israeli enemy from waging further wars, that’s positive. The enemy has even declared that war with Lebanon is inevitable and has been waiting for the right moment.”
Lebanese Elections
Regarding municipal and parliamentary elections, Sheikh Qassem affirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to participating in the municipal elections, alongside allies in the Amal Movement, in line with the agreement between Speaker Nabih Berri and martyr Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah. He expressed support for Lebanon’s current electoral law, with openness to new proposals.
Political Alliances and National Unity
On political alliances, Sheikh Qassem praised the Progressive Socialist Party’s stance on the Israeli aggression and Syria, noting ongoing positive relations with the Free Patriotic Movement, Marada Movement, and figures from the Sunni community, such as Talal Arslan and Wiam Wahhab. He emphasized Hezbollah’s efforts to maintain national unity and avoid internal strife.
Rebuilding Lebanon Post-Israeli Aggression
Reflecting on rebuilding Lebanon post-Israeli attacks, Sheikh Qassem clarified, “The state is responsible for reconstruction, without any conditions attached by others. The resistance has always stood firm against aggression and supported Gaza without instigating the war.”
His Eminence reaffirmed that Hezbollah, in cooperation with Amal, is committed to rebuilding the country and ensuring reforms.
Regional and Global Developments
Concerning regional and global developments, Sheikh Qassem criticized Trump’s approach to global affairs, highlighting his arrogance in handling international relations. He stressed that Israel, as a tool of the US, would bear the consequences of further escalation, especially in relation to Iran.
His Eminence also lauded the stances of Yemen, Iran, and Syria in the face of Israeli aggression, noting that Hezbollah’s support for these countries is unwavering.
On Syria, Sheikh Qassem refrained from commenting on the success or failure of the Syrian situation but wished for stability in Syria to curb Israeli expansion. He confirmed Hezbollah’s non-intervention in Syria while acknowledging the possibility of Syrian resistance against Israel.
Message to Hezbollah Fighters, Supporters
In his message to fighters and wounded individuals, Sheikh Qassem expressed pride in the resistance fighters and their unwavering commitment to Hezbollah’s mission, especially those injured in operations like the Baijir blasts. “You are the living martyrs, and your resilience is the source of our strength.”
To the people and supporters of the resistance, Sheikh Qassem concluded, “The strength of the resistance lies in you. Stay strong and united. Those who look up never look down.”
Source: Al-Manar Website
