Monday, 25 May 2026
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem. Photo: Naim Qassem website
Hezbollah chief vows to resist Israel, rejects disarmament
BEIRUT — Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem on Sunday unequivocally dismissed demands for the Lebanese group to disarm, asserting Lebanon’s unwavering commitment to resisting Israel, Xinhua reported.
Speaking in commemoration of Ashoura Day, Qassem stressed that protecting Lebanon is a fundamental duty that does not require outside approval, firmly rejecting any suggestion that Hezbollah should give up its weapons.
“This Israeli occupation must end. Resistance is our obligation; we must stand up and confront it,” Qassem declared in a statement published by Hezbollah.
Responding to those urging disarmament, he likened the group’s position to that of a homeowner defending against an intruder, insisting that immediate defense is an inherent right—not a favor granted by others.
“When your home is under attack, do you ask for permission to defend yourself? Defense requires no consent,” he stated.
Qassem also criticized those who call on Lebanese citizens to relinquish their arms while turning a blind eye to Israeli aggression.
“Demand the retreat of the enemy, not surrender from your own people,” he urged.
He went on to caution Lebanese political forces against appealing to foreign powers in efforts to undermine Hezbollah, warning that such strategies are destined to fail.