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.”
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What are Hezbollah’s primary demands regarding Israel’s “freedom of action” in Lebanese territory?
## Interview with Middle East Analyst on Hezbollah’s Response
**[Host]:** We are joined today by Dr. Sarah Ahmed, a leading expert on Middle Eastern politics and security. Dr. Ahmed, following the recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has threatened attacks on downtown Tel Aviv. What are your thoughts on this development and the potential for escalation?
**[Dr. Ahmed]:** This is a very serious situation. Qassem’s threat indicates a significant escalation in the rhetoric and potentially signaling a willingness to directly target Israeli civilian areas. This comes after Israel’s airstrikes which killed several Hezbollah members, including their spokesperson Mohammed Afif.
It’s crucial to note that Hezbollah has stated they will not accept any ceasefire agreement that compromises Lebanese sovereignty and insists that Israel should not have “freedom of action” in Lebanese territory.
**[Host]:** Could you elaborate on what Hezbollah means by “freedom of action” and why they are so insistent on this point?
**[Dr. Ahmed]:** Essentially, Hezbollah is arguing against Israel’s right to unilaterally target them within Lebanon, even during a ceasefire. They are demanding guarantees that Israel will refrain from future airstrikes or incursions into Lebanese territory. This is a significant point of contention and could hinder ceasefire negotiations.
**[Host]:** Given Hezbollah’s strong stance and Israel’s insistence on its right to defend itself, would you say a lasting ceasefire is achievable in this current climate?
**[Dr. Ahmed]:** It’s going to be incredibly difficult. Both sides are deeply entrenched in their positions, with Hezbollah unwilling to compromise on Lebanese sovereignty and Israel prioritizing its security concerns. The threat of further violence remains high, especially in light of Qassem’s statement.
The international community will need to play a critical role in mediating between the parties and finding a solution that addresses the security concerns of both Israel and Lebanon.
**[Host]:** Thank you, Dr. Ahmed, for your insightful analysis.
This is a developing scenario, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.
