Hezbollah's Qassem Promises Response to Israeli Aggression Amid Ceasefire
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem emphasizes the need for a true ceasefire with Israel, warning of retaliation for any violations. He proposes significant steps for peace while expressing readiness for cooperation with the Lebanese government.
Key Takeaways
Ceasefire must be mutual, asserts Qassem.
Hezbollah outlines five key steps for peace.
Israeli military continues operations despite ceasefire.
Calls for cooperation with the Lebanese government.
Hezbollah remains committed to Lebanon's sovereignty.
Beirut, April 19 (NationPress) The leader of Hezbollah, Naim Qassem, asserted that the ceasefire with Israel necessitates a total cessation of hostilities, warning that the group will take action against any Israeli transgressions in southern Lebanon. "A ceasefire cannot be one-sided," Qassem emphasized in a statement, adding that Hezbollah's fighters will respond appropriately to acts of aggression.
He detailed five essential measures: an enduring cessation of hostilities throughout Lebanon, a comprehensive withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of detainees, the return of displaced individuals, and reconstruction efforts supported by Arab and international partners, as reported by Xinhua.
Qassem insisted that Hezbollah has not been defeated and will persist in its quest for Lebanon's liberation and sovereignty.
Additionally, he expressed Hezbollah's willingness to open a "new chapter" of collaboration with the Lebanese government, emphasizing a commitment to work alongside state institutions to bolster national unity and protect the nation’s sovereignty.
A ceasefire lasting 10 days between Israel and Lebanon commenced at midnight on Thursday, following a prior announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump.
However, the Israel Defense Forces reported on Saturday that they had targeted militants approaching a "Yellow Line," marking the northern boundary of the security zone established by Israel in southern Lebanon.
Moreover, eyewitnesses and a Lebanese security source noted that the Israeli army initiated the construction of a new military installation on Saturday near Kfarchouba village, located in the eastern region of southern Lebanon's border area.
The Lebanese security source revealed that an Israeli military unit, equipped with bulldozers and excavators, and protected by a Merkava tank, was engaged in earthmoving activities on a hill southwest of Kfarchouba. These activities included leveling ground, excavations, and constructing earth berms, pointing to the establishment of a new military post linked to Kfarchouba.
Eyewitnesses identified the location as Rbaa al-Teben hill, approximately 1.5 km from the Lebanon-Israel demarcation line, which features olive groves and vineyards.
Point of View
It's crucial to present the unfolding situation in Lebanon with clarity. Hezbollah's recent statements reflect a complex interplay of regional dynamics and domestic politics, revealing a persistent struggle for sovereignty amidst international pressures.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Hezbollah's leader say about the ceasefire?
Hezbollah's leader, Naim Qassem, stated that a ceasefire must involve a complete halt to hostilities from both sides, warning of retaliation against any Israeli violations.
What are the key proposals outlined by Qassem?
Qassem proposed five critical steps: an end to hostilities, full Israeli withdrawal, detainee releases, the return of displaced individuals, and reconstruction support.
What recent actions have the Israeli Defense Forces taken?
The Israeli Defense Forces reported targeting militants near a designated 'Yellow Line' and began constructing a new military site in southern Lebanon.
