In a recorded speech, Sheikh Naim Kassem, the Deputy Secretary-General of Hezbollah, addressed several issues, including the security situation in southern Lebanon, Israeli violations of the ceasefire and the details of the funerals of Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine.
On the security front, Kassem emphasized that "the Lebanese state is responsible for taking measures to put an end to Israeli violations of the ceasefire." According to him, Hezbollah has chosen to show “patience” in response to these violations, allowing the Lebanese state to fully assume its role in maintaining stability. However, he stressed that "following the extension of the agreement, it is the responsibility of the Lebanese state to closely monitor the situation and apply firm pressure on the sponsoring countries to end the Israeli violations."
January 26 Clashes in the South
Kassem also praised the "resilience" of the people of the South, particularly during the January 26 clashes, where villagers faced Israeli tanks despite ongoing bombings and gunfire. He described these events as a "popular liberation," stressing that "the people, with their resistance and their Army, are the ones who liberated Lebanon." He added that, while acknowledging the sacrifices and human losses, Hezbollah does not speak of an "absolute victory."
Funerals of Nasrallah and Safieddine
Kassem then announced that the funerals of Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine would take place on February 23. He specified that "Nasrallah will be buried between the two airport roads in the southern suburb of Beirut, and Safieddine in his hometown in the South." He added that these funerals would be "solemn and popular," expressing a desire to "maintain respect and dignity" by urging people not to "fire guns in the air, neither during the funerals nor on any other occasion."
Reactions to Motorcycle Processions in Beirut
Finally, Kassem responded to the recent motorcycle processions that paraded through several neighborhoods of Beirut last Sunday, denying Hezbollah's involvement in these events. He urged security forces to intervene and take the necessary measures to prevent such demonstrations.
Israeli Threats
This speech came just hours after threatening statements from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who warned Hezbollah regarding the situation in Lebanon. Katz cautioned Naim Kassem, stating, "I warn Nasrallah’s successor not to underestimate Israel’s determination, or he will pay the price, just like his predecessors." He added, "If drone attacks from Lebanon continue, Hezbollah will cease to exist." Katz reiterated Israel’s position, asserting that the Jewish state would not allow "a return to the situation of October 7" and would respond to any threats with "full force."
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