Hezbollah Deputy Vows Continued Fight Against Israel on Anniversary of Nasrallah's Killing

Hezbollah's deputy secretary-general, Naim Qassem, delivered a speech marking the second anniversary of the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah and his successor, Hashem Safi al-Din, vowing to continue the fight against Israel and rejecting calls for the group to disarm. "We are loyal to the alliance, which means we continue. When a leader is killed, a leader comes in his place who continues the path and commitment of the previous leadership," Qassem stated.

Qassem affirmed Hezbollah's commitment to "resistance" against Israel, aiming for the "complete liberation of occupied land." He praised Nasrallah, sent greetings to those injured in the recent pager attacks, and emphasized that "Palestine will remain the compass, and the liberation of our land will remain a top priority."

Addressing internal opposition, Qassem defended Hezbollah's actions, claiming the group prevented Israel from achieving its objectives in Lebanon, including the establishment of settlements. He asserted that Hezbollah forces had halted approximately 90,000 Israeli soldiers and officers in battles in southern Lebanon.

Qassem also sharply criticized the Lebanese government's attempts at dialogue, dismissing the state's claim to a monopoly on weapons. He stated Hezbollah is open to dialogue but only after the south is liberated and residents can return, adding, "If anyone is ready to surrender, we are not ready. This country belongs to all of us, and we will not give up a single inch."

The speech comes two years after Operation "New Order," during which the Israeli Air Force conducted a precise strike in Beirut, killing Nasrallah and other senior commanders. Despite significant blows to the organization since then, Qassem maintained a firm stance against internal pressure to disarm.