Sheikh Naim Qassem: Resistance persists, disarmament is off table

BEIRUT, April 27 (YPA) – The Secretary-General of Hezbollah, Sheikh Naim Qassem, asserted in a statement issued this morning that the “Islamic Resistance” in Lebanon remains strong, effective, and undefeated.

He emphasized that its weaponry is exclusively dedicated to deterring aggression and protecting sovereignty, describing it as “non-negotiable and not subject to concessions.”

Sheikh Qassem reaffirmed his absolute rejection of direct negotiations with the “Israeli enemy,” calling for a return to the indirect track and stating that the outcomes of current negotiations “do not concern the resistance.”

He proposed a framework beginning with the cessation of “comprehensive aggression,” the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces, the return of displaced persons, and the launch of reconstruction under the slogan: “Together we resisted, together we shall rebuild.”

Regarding the internal affairs, he criticized the performance of the Lebanese authorities, demanding the reversal of the March 2nd decree—which he claimed “criminalizes the resistance”—viewing its rescission as a fundamental prerequisite for any internal dialogue.

Sheikh Qassem stressed the strength of the alliance with the “Amal Movement” and national forces, noting that the ceasefire would not have been achieved without Iran’s role in the Pakistan talks and the steadfastness of the Lebanese resistance.

He concluded by confirming the return of residents to the border areas with “occupied Palestine,” emphasizing that the resistance will remain the natural response until the total liberation of Lebanese territories and will not yield to threats.

YPA