Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has demanded that Israel withdraw its troops from Lebanon “unconditionally.” His remarks were made during a televised address on the Muslim holy day of Ashura, coinciding with extended U.S.-mediated ceasefire talks between Lebanon and Israel.
Israeli troops remain positioned deep inside southern Lebanon, despite Iranian claims that Israel is obligated to withdraw under the terms of a U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement. Qassem described this agreement as an “official declaration of defeat” for the U.S. and Israel.
While Israeli attacks in Lebanon have decreased since the ceasefire began last week, they have not ceased entirely. An Israeli air raid on Friday morning targeted the town of Nabatieh al-Fawqa, and two fatalities were reported from an earlier raid in Mayfadoun.
Israeli forces have also dropped leaflets over the southern town of Mansouri, instructing residents to evacuate. An Israeli military spokesperson stated this order was a “reminder” for civilians to avoid the area, which is within the security zone where Israeli Defense Forces operate.
On Friday, the Israeli army claimed to have killed seven Hezbollah members near the “security zone” in southern Lebanon. Additionally, four Israeli soldiers were injured in clashes with Hezbollah in Beit Yahoun the previous day.
Lebanese officials began direct talks with Israel in Washington in April, but progress has been limited. Israel appears to be linking its withdrawal to Hezbollah’s full disarmament. Former Lebanese diplomat Tracy Chamoun indicated that the Lebanese delegation is struggling to secure commitments from Israel regarding a comprehensive ceasefire and withdrawal.
Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc has reiterated its refusal to negotiate directly with Israel. Qassem urged Lebanese authorities to unite against Israel and avoid aligning with U.S. interests.
Amid these tensions, France and Italy have proposed an initiative to form an international coalition to support Lebanon’s security following the exit of the UN peacekeeping force.
