US Aggression Jeopardizes Lebanon’s Sovereignty: Hezbollah Chief

Beirut: Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem has said that Lebanon’s sovereignty lies in the hands of its people, especially those who continue to live and farm along the country’s borders. He called them “the true sovereigns” of Lebanon.

Speaking at a ceremony in southern Lebanon, Qassem strongly criticized U.S. interference in Lebanese affairs, accusing Washington of “sponsoring aggression rather than mediating peace.” He said the United States claims to support stability but actually enables Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty.

Qassem said Israel has carried out more than 5,000 violations of Lebanese airspace and territory, accusing the U.S. of ignoring or justifying them. He also defended the Lebanese Army’s right to protect the country, rejecting American criticism and calling for unity among Lebanese citizens.

“We are not advocates of surrender or defeat,” he said. “Israel can occupy, but it cannot remain in occupation of our land.”

Qassem warned that Lebanon’s sovereignty faces real danger from both U.S. pressure and Israeli expansion, stressing that national unity is essential to defend the country and reclaim occupied areas.

He reaffirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to the Taif Agreement, saying it should not be applied selectively. “Those who claim to respect the Taif Agreement must follow all of its articles, including those about liberating Lebanese land,” he added.

In an interview with Al-Manar TV, Qassem said that ongoing Israeli attacks are part of a joint U.S.-Israeli effort to achieve through politics what they have failed to achieve militarily. He also said that Hezbollah does not plan to start a war but will defend Lebanon if attacked.

“If the enemy launches a war on Lebanon, it will achieve nothing,” Qassem warned. “We are ready to defend our country with whatever means we have — even to the last man or woman.”

He called for full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, saying all sides would benefit from peace, but if it is violated, Lebanon’s resistance will continue preparing to face any aggression.