Sheikh Naim Qassem: Resistance Will Never Surrender—Ceasefire Violations Must End
It is absurd to ask us to hand over our rockets, which are the foundation of our defense. Were it not for the resistance, Israel would have already overrun our towns and villages,” he said.
Lebanon, PUREWILAYAH.COM - During a powerful speech at the annual Ashura commemoration in Beirut, Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem reaffirmed the movement’s unwavering commitment to resisting the Israeli occupation and defending Lebanon.
He praised the overwhelming public turnout, calling it symbolic and meaningful—especially as some had expected participation to diminish amid regional pressures.
“This resistance is that of Imam Sayyed Musa al-Sadr and the master of the martyrs of the Ummah, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, and it will uphold the covenant,” Sheikh Qassem declared.
“The flame of resistance will remain ignited, even if the circumstances are difficult.”
Resistance Is a Sacred Duty, Not a Bargaining Chip
Sheikh Qassem strongly rejected any suggestion of surrender, disarmament, or normalization with the Israeli regime, calling normalization “deeply degrading and unacceptable.” He described the resistance as a sacred duty, not just a political stance.
“We confront the enemy by defending Lebanon, and this defense will continue—even if the whole world stands against us. Liberation is a duty, no matter how long it takes.”
“We carry the wills of our martyrs on our shoulders. We will never accept surrender. We are men of the field. Our position is clear: either our rights prevail or their falsehood is defeated.”
Sheikh Qassem reiterated that Hezbollah, alongside its ally the Amal movement, possesses full strength and unity, rejecting all calls to abandon their weapons.
“It is absurd to ask us to hand over our rockets, which are the foundation of our defense. Were it not for the resistance, ‘Israel’ would have already overrun our towns and villages,” he said.
Ceasefire Violations Cannot Be Tolerated
Turning to the ceasefire agreement, Sheikh Qassem condemned the Israeli regime’s continued violations and stressed that peace cannot be expected without compliance.
“The ceasefire was supposed to end the aggression, but the occupation has committed thousands of violations. ‘Israel’ must first withdraw its forces, stop all aggression, release prisoners, and allow reconstruction to begin,” he stated.
He emphasized that no side has the right to ask Hezbollah to disarm or soften its position while the occupation persists in its attacks.
“We are not concerned by threats from the occupation or Washington—be it threats of assassination or demands for surrender,” he asserted.
“We are ready for peace and state-building, just as we are prepared for confrontation and defense. But we will not give up our rights, no matter the sacrifice.”
Standing With Gaza, Yemen, and Iran
The Hezbollah chief addressed his solidarity with the Palestinian Resistance in Gaza, saluting their courage and declaring:
“With your resistance, you are among the most honorable people in the world. Palestine will remain for its people, and we will continue to stand by you.”
Sheikh Qassem also praised Yemen’s pivotal role in the resistance front:
“Yemen has become a torch of resistance and honor, humiliating both America and Israel.”
Finally, he commended the steadfastness of the Iranian people, stating:
“Iran stood firm and prevented Israel from achieving its objectives.” (PW)
Source: Al-Mayadeen