Qassem Rejects Direct Talks, Says Hezbollah Focused on Ending Israeli Attacks
Hezbollah’s Secretary General Naim Qassem said Hezbollah’s sole priority remains securing a comprehensive end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, including a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, stressing that Lebanese sovereignty must be the central objective of any solution.
In a statement marking the anniversary of the death of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Qassem criticized ongoing direct negotiations, describing them as humiliating and urging Lebanese officials to halt what he called a process that serves Israeli objectives.
He argued that linking any agreement to the disarmament of Hezbollah would weaken Lebanon and threaten its security, reaffirming that the group would continue resisting as long as Israeli attacks and occupation persist.
Qassem also emphasized Hezbollah’s commitment to national unity and called for internal dialogue under the framework of the Constitution, the Taif Agreement and coexistence, while urging Lebanese authorities to prioritize confronting Israeli attacks and strengthening national cohesion.
