Sheikh Qassem: Liberation Is Everlasting, Occupation Is Temporary
He criticized Washington’s efforts to reshape the Middle East through force, manipulation, and occupation, asserting that Lebanon will not be a passive victim in such schemes
Lebanon, PUREWILAYAH.COM - On Monday, during a central Ashura gathering, Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem delivered a powerful address reaffirming the Resistance’s commitment to the defense of Lebanese sovereignty and justice in the face of ongoing Israeli and American aggression. He opened his remarks by declaring, “The occupation of Lebanese territory is temporary, but liberation is everlasting.”
Despite a ceasefire that took effect on November 27—halting over two months of all-out Israeli war against Lebanon—Israel continues to violate Lebanese sovereignty with near-daily strikes and maintains its occupation of five positions along the UN-demarcated Blue Line, which it deems “strategic.” Sheikh Qassem condemned these violations as evidence of Israel’s continued belligerence and its refusal to respect Lebanon’s territorial rights.
A Stand of Resistance and Defense
Framing the Resistance’s posture as fundamentally defensive, Sheikh Qassem stressed that Hezbollah’s actions are not aggressive but rooted in a duty to protect the Lebanese people and their land.
“We are in a position of defense against the occupier and the joint Israeli-American aggression,” he said, clarifying that it is the enemy that is acting with hostility, not the Resistance.
Sheikh Qassem described “Israel” as an “aggressive, oppressive, and criminal” entity and condemned the United States as a “tyrannical power” that seeks to destroy dignified life around the world.
He criticized Washington’s efforts to reshape the Middle East through force, manipulation, and occupation, asserting that Lebanon will not be a passive victim in such schemes.
The Inalienable Right to Resist
“We have every right to say no,” he affirmed. Reiterating the Resistance’s legitimacy, he stated, “Our commitment to the land stems from the fact that it is ours by right. Others cannot deprive us of this right for the sake of their interests.”
According to Sheikh Qassem, what is at stake is not only territory but the fundamental dignity of a people. The Resistance, he emphasized, will act decisively in defense of that right.
“Today, Israel is on a rampage, and so is the United States. They want to exploit the moment to reshape the region in their image. But this is where those who stand with justice emerge,” he continued. “We will stand with justice, and we will not allow this occupation to find stability.”
He made it clear that true stability will only come when justice is achieved and the Lebanese land is liberated. “When justice prevails, and we liberate our land and prevent Israel and the U.S. from imposing their will on us, then—and only then—will we reach a future of dignity and greatness.”
Warning Against Complicity and Division
In a pointed message to Lebanese political actors, Sheikh Qassem called for unity and loyalty to the nation over allegiance to foreign agendas. He urged all Lebanese to refrain from supporting the schemes of the United States and Israel, especially at this critical turning point in the country’s history.
“We can resolve our internal disagreements,” he said, “but do not stand with the enemies.”
He warned that those willing to surrender Lebanese territory or yield to the occupier’s demands are not pursuing peace but are in fact “leading the country into the unknown.” This, he argued, undermines Lebanon’s sovereignty and future.
The Path of Righteousness
Sheikh Qassem concluded his address with a call to remain steadfast in the face of oppression and deceit. “All tyrants want to influence us negatively,” he said, “but we have no choice but to tread the path of righteousness.”
He closed by reassuring supporters of the Resistance:
“Be assured, you will always be at the forefront with your heads held high. What matters most is that you continue to stand with what is right.” (PW)