Sheikh Qassem: Hezbollah's Strength Unbroken, Resistance Determined to Confront Israeli Occupation

Al Manar

09-03-2025

Hezbollah's Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem addressed a broad range of issues, emphasizing the resilience of Hezbollah, its commitment to confronting occupation, and the unwavering spirit of its people.
In an exclusive interview with Al Manar on Sunday, His Eminence stated, 'The people of the resistance are the noblest and most honorable. Now, I understand even more the relationship between Sayyed Nasrallah and the people—it is beyond words.'
Sheikh Qassem noted that the decision to delay the funeral due to security concerns was ultimately shaped by unfolding circumstances.
'After Sayyed Nasrallah's martyrdom, there was coordination with Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, and we agreed to postpone the funeral to safeguard the people. As time passed, the situation necessitated further delays. The turnout was unparalleled. I felt that the people were declaring, 'We remain loyal to you, Sayyed Nasrallah.' Resistance is not merely a phase—it is a deeply rooted belief embraced by men and women, young and old,' His Eminence affirmed.
Sheikh Qassem described the funeral as more than a farewell—it was a pledge of loyalty to the resistance. 'This procession bridged the past and future. The people weren't just mourning; they were renewing their commitment.'
He praised Hezbollah's steadfast supporters, recalling families who had lost loved ones yet remained resolute. 'One woman gave three martyrs, two sons-in-law, and two grandchildren—ready to sacrifice more. Another offered her only son and stood prepared to give again. Who can defeat such a people? They stand firm, always ahead of their enemies, defying every conspiracy.'
Sheikh Qassem highlighted the massive turnout, with 20,000 organizers managing the funeral. He thanked Iraq, Iran, Palestine, Yemen, Tunisia, and all who stood in solidarity, noting that 'even when flight paths were blocked, Iranian delegations still found a way to attend.'
Sheikh Qassem rejected claims that the resistance had been weakened. 'Beirut's Camille Chamoun Sports City was packed by 6 a.m. This funeral was a defining moment. People can say what they want about victory or defeat—every major event holds meaning, from resisting aggression to the Battle of the Mighty Warriors and our strategic patience against Israeli attacks.'
Sayyed Nasrallah and Leadership Transition
He recalled his last meeting with Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on September 18, 2024, and their final phone call on September 21, 2024.
'After Sayyed Nasrallah's assassination, I spoke with Sayyed Hashem Safieddine about the burial and leadership transition. I proposed that he take on the role of secretary general. But before any formal announcement, Sayyed Hashem was also martyred. When I heard of his assassination, it felt like an earthquake—my life turned upside down. Yet, I felt no fear or hesitation, only divine guidance,' Sheikh Qassem asserted.
Sheikh Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah's military strength. 'After Sayyed Hashem's martyrdom, I contacted our military leadership and asked to be briefed on what remains—not what we lost. Hezbollah's structure is vast, and our capabilities are immense. Despite security challenges, we quickly regained control, conducted internal investigations, and held accountable those responsible for lapses.'
His Eminence revealed that Hezbollah had adjusted its battlefield strategies, reaching an agreement with its military leadership on targeting enemy positions, including strikes on the occupied city of Tel Aviv. 'Had the enemy been able to advance on the ground, they would have done so—not just towards southern Lebanon but beyond, as they did in 1982 when they invaded Beirut.'
Israeli Enemy's Defeat and the Power of Resistance
Sheikh Qassem highlighted the direct hits on Israeli targets, including the occupied city of Tel Aviv and Zionist Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence, as a turning point. 'The Israeli enemy sought negotiations after realizing our capabilities. We did not enter these talks from a position of weakness. We never wanted this war, but when the enemy asked for a ceasefire, we negotiated while fully capable of continuing the fight.'
His Eminence emphasized Hezbollah's precision in targeting military sites, avoiding non-military targets despite having the ability to strike them. 'We chose to focus on military objectives to deny the Israeli enemy any excuse to escalate its crimes further.'
Resistance: A Path of Sacrifice and Victory
Addressing concerns about the resistance's future, Sheikh Qassem affirmed, 'The resistance is strong and ongoing, though it has endured sacrifices. Could anyone expect it to continue without them? Yes, we have made great sacrifices, but we understand that facing Israel, the US, and their allies requires paying a price. We are up against a massive force that has used every means of brutality against the resistance in Palestine and Lebanon.'
His Eminence emphasized the heavy toll on the Israeli enemy, both militarily and economically. 'Their casualties are mounting, their economy is strained, and their forces are suffering significant losses. This confirms that the resistance remains steadfast.'
Hezbollah's Sheikh Qassem rejected claims of secret clauses in the ceasefire agreement. 'The deal explicitly mentions 'south of the Litani River' five times. This is the framework we adhere to.'
He dismissed speculation about US-Israeli side agreements, affirming that the ceasefire falls under UN Resolution 1701. 'During the 60-day period, Israel committed multiple violations. The Lebanese army has repeatedly expressed readiness to deploy, but Israel has blocked it.'
His Eminence warned of the broader Zionist project, citing Israeli violations, including the presence of rabbis at contested sites. 'This is not just about aggression; it's part of a larger expansionist agenda.'
Resistance Will Not Back Down
Sheikh Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah's commitment to resisting occupation. 'If the Israeli enemy continues its occupation, it will face resistance from the army, the people, and the resistance. Some believe diplomacy alone can achieve liberation—but history proves otherwise. Resistance is what forced Israel out of southern Lebanon in 2000.'
'We live in this land together, and we will continue to defend it together. Has Israel's brutality silenced some voices? No matter—the resistance will never stop, and we will never surrender,' Sheikh Qassem emphasized.
His Eminence pointed out that the Lebanese foreign minister provides the Israeli enemy with excuses to continue its aggression and should demand an end to the occupation. He also condemned Israeli attacks on civilians, affirming that the resistance will never stop and will continue to defend the homeland.