Hezbollah leader Qassem addresses Israel: 'Do not test our patience'

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem stated that they have exercised patience regarding Israel's violations of the ceasefire with Lebanon so far, declaring, "I invite you not to test our patience."

According to a statement from Hezbollah, Qassem said in a video conference he attended that "the resistance forces and the Palestinian people have thwarted Israel's dangerous plan."

Qassem argued that "Hezbollah's attacks in Lebanon have contributed to the victory of Gaza."

Stating that Israel has failed to achieve its goal of eliminating Hezbollah, Qassem noted that the resistance continues to maintain a strong presence in Lebanon.

Regarding Israel's violations of the ceasefire, Qassem used the expression, "We have been patient against the violations to give an opportunity to the Lebanese state, which is responsible for the agreement, and to international supporters. I invite you not to test our patience."

The Hezbollah leader said regarding the hundreds of violations committed by Israel against the ceasefire that "this cannot continue like this" and called on the Lebanese state to be decisive.

Qassem stated that the agreement only applies to the area south of the Litani River, noting that they have withdrawn from this region within the framework of UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1701.

Stating that the consequences of the attacks should not be reflected in domestic politics, Qassem argued that the "political path and the resistance" are separate.

Qassem stated that as Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, they have contributed to the election of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, adding, "No one can prevent us from participating in politics in the country."

The ceasefire agreement reached between Lebanon and Israel entered into force on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 04:00 local time (05:00 Turkish time).