On Tuesday, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah made clear that neither threats nor the lure of political advantages would deter Hezbollah from continuing its offensive actions against Israel, unless the conflict in Gaza comes to an end. In a broadcast speech delivered on the occasion of Hezbollah’s ‘Day of the Wounded’, Nasrallah declared their actions in Lebanon, and those of their allies on other fronts, as a true expression of their obligations.
Nasrallah underscored the actions in Lebanon as a patriotic duty, expressing dissatisfaction with Resolution 1701’s inability to offer protection, crediting instead the efforts of the resistance. He highlighted that the southern front has been active for 129 days, where, despite limitations, the engagement has served to recalibrate the power dynamics and establish Lebanon as a force capable of deterrence.
Nasrallah also commented on the recent influx of Arab and Western officials to Lebanon, interpreting these visits as primarily aimed at safeguarding Israel by seeking an end to hostilities against Zionist positions and facilitating the return of settlers. He criticized these delegations for aligning with Israeli interests, referencing a proposal by France that seemingly echoed Israel’s demands.
According to Nasrallah, the attempts to intimidate Hezbollah and the propositions of political benefits have failed to impact their stance or bring peace to the region. He described the southern Lebanon front as a collective effort to weaken Israel economically and security-wise until it ceases its aggressions against Gaza. Nasrallah argued that Israel is not in a position to dictate terms to Lebanon, urging Lebanese authorities to demand more rather than comply with Resolution 1701.
Addressing recent statements by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Nasrallah stated that peace in the south would follow the cessation of hostilities against Gaza. However, any further actions by Israel would trigger a proportional response from Hezbollah, adhering to established rules of engagement.
Furthermore, Nasrallah advised residents in southern Lebanon to disable their cellphones and cameras to obstruct Israeli intelligence efforts aimed at targeting Hezbollah personnel, highlighting the significance of these devices in espionage activities.