Hezbollah Rejects Political Negotiations with Israel, Asserts Right to Self-Defense
Hezbollah reiterates its right to defend Lebanon against Israeli aggression and refuses any political negotiations.
BEIRUT: Hezbollah issued a statement on Thursday asserting its legitimate right to defend Lebanon against potential aggression from Israel.
This announcement came in response to warnings from Israel that it might intensify operations within Lebanese territory targeting the militant group, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accusing Hezbollah of rearming.
Hezbollah, backed by Iran, declared that engaging in political negotiations with Israel would not serve Lebanon's national interests.
The statement, addressed to the Lebanese people and their leaders, emphasized the group's commitment to a ceasefire reached in November 2024 following months of heightened tensions culminating in all-out war between the two nations.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces continue to be present in five areas within southern Lebanon and carry out regular strikes.
As part of the peace efforts, the Lebanese government has been tasked with devising a plan to disarm Hezbollah; however, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, accused Lebanese President Joseph Aoun of delaying this process.
Netanyahu further criticized Hezbollah, stating that the group is attempting to rearm after suffering significant losses in its last conflict with Israel.
In September 2024, Israel targeted and eliminated several senior leaders within Hezbollah, including their long-time chief, Hassan Nasrallah.
Since the ceasefire, the United States has increased pressure on Lebanese authorities to disarm Hezbollah, a move that is opposed by both Hezbollah and its allies.
Recent weeks have seen an escalation in Israeli strikes against Lebanon, primarily targeting what Israel claims are Hezbollah positions.
This announcement came in response to warnings from Israel that it might intensify operations within Lebanese territory targeting the militant group, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accusing Hezbollah of rearming.
Hezbollah, backed by Iran, declared that engaging in political negotiations with Israel would not serve Lebanon's national interests.
The statement, addressed to the Lebanese people and their leaders, emphasized the group's commitment to a ceasefire reached in November 2024 following months of heightened tensions culminating in all-out war between the two nations.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces continue to be present in five areas within southern Lebanon and carry out regular strikes.
As part of the peace efforts, the Lebanese government has been tasked with devising a plan to disarm Hezbollah; however, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, accused Lebanese President Joseph Aoun of delaying this process.
Netanyahu further criticized Hezbollah, stating that the group is attempting to rearm after suffering significant losses in its last conflict with Israel.
In September 2024, Israel targeted and eliminated several senior leaders within Hezbollah, including their long-time chief, Hassan Nasrallah.
Since the ceasefire, the United States has increased pressure on Lebanese authorities to disarm Hezbollah, a move that is opposed by both Hezbollah and its allies.
Recent weeks have seen an escalation in Israeli strikes against Lebanon, primarily targeting what Israel claims are Hezbollah positions.
