Hezbollah Warns Israel: Leave South Lebanon After 60 Days

Mahmoud Qmati, the deputy head of Hezbollah’s political council, has issued a warning that Hezbollah will change its approach towards Israeli soldiers if they remain in Lebanon for more than 60 days, which marks the initial phase of a ceasefire agreed upon in late November.

Qmati explained that Hezbollah has committed to a period of patience for 60 days, but after this time, Israeli forces will be viewed as occupying troops, and Hezbollah will take appropriate action. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by France and the United States, outlines a gradual withdrawal of both Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon over the 60-day period. However, since the ceasefire began, Israel has continued to carry out occasional airstrikes in Lebanon, and its troops have advanced instead of retreating, bulldozing villages and detonating explosives along the border.

Qmati emphasized that there are red lines, including issues related to Hezbollah’s weapons and the funding for reconstruction efforts. He accused certain domestic figures of acting in Israel’s interests and stressed that Hezbollah does not want aid tied to conditions that would undermine its resistance. He further warned that France and the U.S. must understand that Hezbollah will not tolerate violations of these red lines, and they are prepared to take any necessary action. He reiterated that Hezbollah would not accept the occupation of Lebanon’s land.

Hezbollah has been patient so far for the sake of its people and in keeping with its commitment to the mediators. However, Qmati made it clear that after the 60-day period, on day 61, Hezbollah will treat Israeli forces as occupiers and respond accordingly. He also stated that Hezbollah’s resistance capabilities remain strong and that the group is not bound by the ceasefire if Israel does not fully honor it. He indicated that either both sides must commit to the ceasefire, or neither will.

Qmati added that many supporters and residents who have returned to villages in southern Lebanon are now calling on Hezbollah to take action in response to Israeli violations. He noted that the patience displayed by Hezbollah so far was for the benefit of these people, but now they are demanding retaliation.