Hezbollah leader warns Israel against prolonged presence in Lebanon

Hezbollah leader Naim Qasem has declared that Israel should cease its military presence in Lebanon, directly addressing recent statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu had indicated that Israeli forces would remain in the country for "as long as necessary."

"Israel will not remain in Lebanon, even if it increases its crimes. And we will defend ourselves," Qasem stated during a speech broadcast on Al-Manar television on Sunday. He referenced a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States that reportedly calls for an end to hostilities in Lebanon, though conflicts persist between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters.

“

Israel will not remain in Lebanon, even if it increases its crimes. And we will defend ourselves.

Qasem emphasized that the Iran-backed organization would respond to any actions perceived as a breach of the ceasefire. "Every ceasefire under the title of a total cessation of aggression, we are already committed to. But we will not accept any violation. Every violation, we will confront. Every violation, we will fight. Every violation, we will manage as we see fit," he asserted.

The ongoing tensions highlight the fragile security situation in the region, with both sides exchanging fire across the border. Hezbollah's firm stance signals a readiness to engage militarily if its conditions regarding the ceasefire are not met.

“

Every ceasefire under the title of a total cessation of aggression, we are already committed to. But we will not accept any violation. Every violation, we will confront. Every violation, we will fight. Every violation, we will manage as we see fit.