Sheikh Naim Qassem, Secretary-General of Hezbollah, affirmed on Friday that “defending the homeland requires no one’s permission,” stressing that “when a serious and effective alternative for defense is proposed, we are ready to discuss all details, and we are not far from dialogue with those who claim the ability to provide protection.”
Addressing those demanding Hezbollah’s disarmament, Sheikh Qassem said: “It is illogical that you do not condemn the occupation yet demand that those resisting it lay down their weapons.”
Responding to those betting on foreign powers or hiding behind hostile forces, he stated: “You have miscalculated. The people of resistance do not fear enemies, nor do they surrender their rights. The real achievement is liberating the land and restoring sovereignty—and we are ready for this call at all times.”
Speaking at the ninth night of the central Ashura council in Sayyed al-Shuhada Complex , as reported by Al-Manar, Sayyed Qassem emphasized that “reviving the memory of Imam Hussein means reviving the teachings of Islam in their broad horizons—a methodology that aligns with humanity’s future.”
He added that “Islam is not rigid rituals but a comprehensive project for mankind, based on constants tied to human nature, while allowing flexibility that adapts to time, circumstances, and individual experience.”
Sheikh Qassem noted that “the emergence of pioneering figures in Lebanon who adhere to the Islamic path and embody its principles is a practical translation of what we believe in and are committed to.”
Regarding resistance, he declared: “In our last two battles, ‘The Strongest Onslaught’ and ‘Al-Aqsa Flood,’ we stood alongside Gaza’s people, offering many martyrs—including women and children—who participated in the battlefield, because resistance is inclusive, making no distinction in sacrifice.”
He stressed that “true patriotism means holding onto the land, defending it, and raising generations to love and belong to it,” adding: “We believe in our country and belong to our land. There is no contradiction between Islam and the homeland—rather, Islam urges love for the homeland, its defense, and living with purity and sincerity upon it.”
Sheikh Qassem affirmed that “Lebanon’s choice of resistance stems from Islam and the path of Imam Hussein (as) and Lady Zainab (as).”
Concluding, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General stated: “Our resistance is not a slogan but a firm choice against the Israeli enemy, which toys with our land. It must leave—we have no option but to resist and confront until its departure.”
