Qassem: Resistance to continue, let Israel withdraw first

Hezbollah chief Sheikh Naim Qassem said that Hezbollah’s “resistance” will continue “because it is the choice of the people and those who believe in it.”

“This resistance is a defensive resistance, it is a rejection of occupation, it is refusal to surrender,” Qassem said in a televised speech marking the 25th anniversary of the liberation of south Lebanon from Israeli occupation.

“Resistance is a choice. Sometimes it fights and deters, sometimes it perseveres and prevents, and other times it stays patient and ready,” Qassem explained.

He added that “resistance does not mean that there would be weapons moving every day or firing every day.”

“Resistance is an approach, an orientation. Weapons are a tool for use when needed, in the appropriate way, and according to interest,” Qassem went on to say.

He added: “Let it be clear to everyone: do not request anything from us from now on. Let Israel withdraw, halt its aggression, release the captives and complete all the obligations present in the (ceasefire) agreement and after that we will act accordingly.”

“We have said it and we reiterate: if the state fails in its performance, the other options are present. Do not ask me what the other options are, but you can know that the resistance does not remain silent over injustice and does not surrender,” Qassem said.

“Let no one threaten us. We cannot be threatened. We have only two choices and no third: victory or martyrdom … and we’re ready for them,” Hezbollah’s leader added.

Addressing U.S. President Donald Trump and lauding his decision to stop the bombing campaign in Yemen, Qassem warned that “allowing Israel to continue its actions in Lebanon will strip America of an important opportunity for investments in Lebanon and the region.”