Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has called on the Lebanese government to intensify efforts to halt Israel’s ongoing military operations in the country. His comments follow Israel’s recent air strikes targeting southern suburbs of Beirut, actions that have raised concerns about regional stability after a ceasefire was agreed upon late last November.
In a televised address on Monday, Qassem emphasized Hezbollah’s commitment to the ceasefire that concluded a lengthy conflict lasting 14 months. Despite this adherence, he criticized Israel for its apparent disregard for the truce, noting the increase in hostile air activity. According to reports from the Israeli military, there have been over 50 strikes in Lebanon throughout the month, which Israel claims are in response to perceived threats and alleged violations of the ceasefire by Hezbollah.
International human rights organizations have condemned these Israeli operations, arguing they violate the terms of the truce and exacerbate tensions in the region. The most recent air strike occurred Sunday, when Israeli warplanes targeted what they described as a facility for precision-guided missiles located in Beirut’s southern suburbs. An hour before the strike, the Israeli military issued a warning, illustrating a tactical approach to its military actions.
In response to these developments, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed substantial concern, asserting that such attacks threaten the security and stability of Lebanon. The President condemned the Israeli actions as unjustified, labeling them as political maneuvers that seek to alter regional power dynamics through force.
Qassem urged Lebanese authorities to actively engage with international sponsors of the ceasefire, advocating for pressure to be placed on the United States to encourage Israel to cease its military actions. He articulated that stability in Lebanon is not only crucial for the country’s progress but also aligns with American interests in the region.
Qassem’s address highlighted several priorities, including calls for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, an immediate end to Israeli air strikes, and the release of Lebanese detainees held in Israeli custody since the conclusion of hostilities on November 27.
Tensions have remained heightened since Hezbollah’s military actions escalated following a coordinated attack led by Hamas on October 7, 2023, prompting a fierce Israeli response. The violent conflict has had tragic consequences, with civilian casualties consistently mounting on both sides. The Lebanese government reported that 190 individuals have lost their lives and at least 485 others sustained injuries as a direct result of Israeli strikes since the ceasefire was established.
As the situation evolves, calls for diplomacy and a peaceful resolution continue to resonate within Lebanese society and the broader international community.
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