Hezbollah Rejects Ceasefire, Demands Full Israeli Withdrawal

Hezbollah has officially rejected the latest ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the conflict with Israel, insisting on a complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Sheikh Naim Qassem, a Hezbollah leader, stated that any agreement requiring fighters to leave the occupied areas under fire would be seen as surrender and a victory for the enemy's objectives.

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What we are concerned about is an end to the aggression, ceasefire and Israel's withdrawal.

Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah's resistance will continue as long as Israeli forces remain in Lebanon. He described direct negotiations as futile and humiliating, viewing any demand for disarmament as an attempt to weaken Lebanon. He also warned that Israeli settlements would not be safe as long as Lebanese villages are bombed and civilians are killed.

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We did not make any commitment to any party to stop resisting as long as there is occupation.

The escalating conflict in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have occupied significant parts of the south, poses a serious threat to international efforts to resolve the Iran war and ensure the free passage of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has called for a comprehensive truce that includes Lebanon.

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As long as the aggression continues, we will confront it with all the strength we possess, and we will strike wherever we decide and are able.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing upcoming elections, has indicated a desire to continue the offensive until Hezbollah is no longer a threat. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun described the new agreement as the "last chance" for a final ceasefire, expressing readiness to implement it once all factions, including Hezbollah, respond. The U.S. and President Trump are expected to play a role in the deal's implementation, which reportedly frames Hezbollah as an enemy of Lebanon and calls for its dismantling.

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The agreement's demand that Hezbollah fighters leave southern Lebanon under fire would mean 'surrender, defeat and achieving the enemy's goals.'