The response to the recent Israeli raids in Beirut will be attacks on “downtown Tel Aviv“. This is the threat from Hezbollah leader, Naim Qassem, in light of the bombings that in recent days killed members of the pro-Iranian Shiite group, including spokesman Mohammed Afif.
Hezbollah has also made it known that it will not accept any ceasefire agreement that violates Lebanon’s “sovereignty”. “Israel cannot impose its conditions on us,” Qassem said in the pre-recorded speech, calling for “a total end to aggression and the defense of Lebanon’s sovereignty.” “The Israeli enemy cannot enter Lebanese territory whenever he wants” in the event of a ceasefire, he added, indirectly responding to the words of Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, according to whom a truce cannot ignore “freedom of action” for Israel towards Hezbollah.
«We have received the negotiating document, we have studied it carefully and we have made some observations on the matter – underlined Qassem in his third public speech since becoming leader of Hezbollah on 29 October, referring to the American proposal -. The President of Parliament, Nabih Berri, also expressed his comments, which are in line with ours.” Qassem explained that he “negotiated on the basis of two principles, the first, a complete and total ceasefire, and the second, the preservation of Lebanese sovereignty.”
#hit #center #Tel #Aviv #truce #Tempo
How does Naim Qassem’s statement about not accepting a ceasefire that violates Lebanon’s sovereignty complicate the current situation?
## Interview with Expert on Hezbollah
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. We have with us today Dr. Alex Reed, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and the Hezbollah movement. Dr. Alex Reed thank you for joining us.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has issued a stark warning: attacks on “downtown Tel Aviv” in response to recent Israeli raids in Beirut.
Can you put this threat into context for our audience?
**Alex Reed:** This is certainly a concerning escalation in rhetoric. Qassem’s statement comes in response to Israeli airstrikes that have killed several Hezbollah members, including their spokesman.
Hezbollah has long maintained its stated goal of resistance against Israel, and this threat signals their willingness to retaliate forcefully against what they perceive as Israeli aggression.
It’s important to remember that Qassem’s words are likely intended to send a strong message to Israel, demonstrating Hezbollah’s resolve and deterring further attacks.
**Host:** Qassem has also
stated that Hezbollah will not accept any ceasefire agreement that violates Lebanon’s “sovereignty.” How does this factor into the current situation?
**Alex Reed:** Qassem’s statement is a direct challenge to Israeli demands for a ceasefire that would allow for continued Israeli “freedom of action” against Hezbollah.
This highlights a fundamental point of contention
between the two sides: Israel’s perception of its right to act within Lebanese territory against Hezbollah, and Hezbollah’s insistence on Lebanese sovereignty
and its ability to defend itself.
This impasse makes finding a negotiated solution incredibly difficult,
and raises the risk of further violence.
**Host:** So, what are the potential consequences of this escalating tension?
**Alex Reed:** This situation is volatile and dangerous. Continued hostilities could lead to a wider conflict, potentially drawing in other regional actors.
International mediation is crucial to de-escalate tensions
and find a path towards a sustainable ceasefire that addresses the concerns of both sides.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Alex Reed, for providing your analysis on this critical situation.
We will continue to monitor developments closely.
