The Secretary General of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement stated that the struggle will persist until complete victory and the total defeat of Israeli occupiers. Sheikh Naim Qassem delivered these comments on Thursday in a video message for a conference called “Qom Seminary, Islamic Revolution, and Resistance,” which took place at Dar al-Shafa School, a prominent seminary for advanced students in the Iranian city of Qom.
"We firmly believe in God's promise of victory, and our resistance will persist until we achieve final triumph and completely eliminate the occupiers. No force on earth can hinder the determination of the Islamic Ummah," he emphasized. Sheikh Qassem also commended the contributions of insightful scholars at the Qom Seminary, which, according to the Hezbollah leader, has become "a stronghold against oppression and tyranny." He noted that this institution was the birthplace of the Islamic Revolution in Iran and has inspired liberation movements throughout the region.
Reflecting on the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories from decades past, he emphasized that both the Islamic Revolution and the ideology of its leader, Imam Khomeini, played a crucial role in guiding the Lebanese nation's fight against the Zionist occupiers. “When our land was invaded, the Islamic Revolution and Imam Khomeini’s teachings illuminated our path of resistance. The Lebanese people, particularly the fighters of Hezbollah, embarked on their journey of resistance by following Imam Khomeini’s example,” Sheikh Qassem remarked.
In light of the recent large-scale attack by the occupying military, which involved approximately 75,000 soldiers, the leader of Hezbollah asserted that the only way to achieve a decisive victory over the regime is through resistance. He stated, "The Lebanese people, driven by their faith, historical identity, and national dignity, have remained steadfast against this assault. History has demonstrated that resistance is the sole path to dignity, honor, and freedom."
Sheikh Qassem emphasized that viewing Hezbollah solely as a military organization is a misconception. He pointed out that it represents "a way of thinking" that has gained acceptance not just in the region but also beyond, serving as a "rational and popular strategy against colonialism and hegemony." After enduring substantial losses over nearly 14 months of conflict and failing to achieve its goals in the offensive against Lebanon, Israel was forced to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah, which came into effect on November 27.
Since the agreement began, the occupying forces have been conducting attacks on Lebanon, violating the ceasefire with airstrikes across the country. Lebanon has condemned the ongoing presence of Israeli military forces, considering it a breach of the ceasefire agreement and the agreed-upon withdrawal timeline. Senior officials in Beirut have stated their determination to take "all necessary measures" to expel the occupying troops from the nation.
