In his inaugural address as Hezbollah’s new leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem promised to continue the group’s resistance against Israeli forces, framing the current conflict as part of a larger struggle against a “U.S.-Israeli world war” aimed at eliminating the Palestinian cause and destabilizing the region.
Qassem stated, “We have an Islamic, an Arab, a humanitarian, and a national duty to support Gaza and the people of Palestine,” reflecting the group’s commitment to solidarity with Palestinians. He highlighted the recent escalation of violence, referencing the “Al-Aqsa Storm” and asserting, “This is not simply an Israeli war on Lebanon and Gaza; this is an American-Israeli world war to eliminate our people from the entire region.”
The leader recounted Hezbollah’s historical context, noting, “In 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon, Hezbollah did not exist,” and emphasizing the group’s role in resisting occupation. Qassem further stated, “Israel did not leave in 2000 due to international resolutions, but because of the unity of the Lebanese people and Resistance factions.”
He characterized the ongoing conflict as an existential threat, saying, “We cannot stand and watch while 39,000 are martyred in Gaza, while tents of the camps are being burnt.” He warned that the collective West has revealed its true nature, declaring, “The West is worthless, it is the absolute scum of mankind, with these actions it is doing and allowing.”
Qassem also claimed that Israel’s military strategy has faltered, stating, “The Israelis say they have an issue with defending against drones, that they can defend against missiles but not drones. Well, this is their problem.” He expressed confidence in Hezbollah’s capabilities, asserting, “We have emerged after the pager attack in an extraordinary way… our field leaders are experts and have experience on the front and in Syria.”
Additionally, he addressed the U.S. role in the conflict, indicating that American support for Israel is not unconditional, remarking, “The Americans 100% support Israel, but they disagree with some of the tactics of Netanyahu.”
In contrast, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa Johnson called for a shift in the national narrative, insisting that Israel “will not achieve everything through war” and preparing Lebanon for a “post-Hezbollah era.”
