### Hezbollah's Stance: Defiance Against Israeli Threats Amid Ongoing Tensions Hezbollah's leader, Naim Qassem, has firmly stated that the militant group will not surrender or disarm in response to Israeli threats. This declaration comes amidst ongoing Israeli airstrikes and military actions in Lebanon, which have persisted despite a ceasefire established in November. Qassem emphasized that disarmament would only be considered after Israel ceases its aggression and withdraws from southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah maintains a significant presence. The group's refusal to lay down arms reflects a broader context of regional tensions and the complex dynamics of Lebanese politics, particularly following the death of former leader Hassan Nasrallah in September 2024, which has led to increased scrutiny of Hezbollah's military capabilities and political influence [https://www.ibtimes.com.au/hezbollah-chief-says-wont-surrender-under-israeli-threats-1859563][https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/hezbollah-chief-says-his-group-will-not-surrender-under-threat-from-israel]. ### Breakdown of Hezbollah's Position and Context 1. **Hezbollah's Refusal to Disarm**: - Qassem has reiterated that the group will not disarm until Israel halts its military actions and withdraws from southern Lebanon [https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3317141/hezbollah-will-not-disarm-or-surrender-under-threat-israel-leader-says]. 2. **Response to Israeli Aggression**: - The leader's statements come in the wake of ongoing Israeli airstrikes, which Hezbollah views as a direct threat to its existence and a violation of Lebanese sovereignty [https://www.firstpost.com/world/hezbollahs-new-chief-says-group-will-not-surrender-to-israeli-aggression-13903593.html]. 3. **Political Context**: - The backdrop of Qassem's remarks includes significant political pressure within Lebanon for disarmament, especially after the recent war that weakened Hezbollah's standing [https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/Jul/06/hezbollah-chief-says-wont-surrender-under-israeli-threats]. 4. **Public Support and Symbolism**: - Qassem's address was delivered during a significant Shiite religious commemoration, Ashoura, where thousands gathered, indicating strong public support for Hezbollah's stance [https://www.startribune.com/hezbollah-leader-refuses-to-disarm-until-israel-withdraws-from-southern-lebanon/601392514]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Military Actions**: - Israeli airstrikes have continued in Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah's leadership to assert their military readiness and commitment to resistance [https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/07/06/no-surrender-disarmament-deadline-looms-but-hezbollah-holds-its-ground/183032]. - **Public Gatherings**: - The Shiite holy day of Ashoura saw thousands of supporters rallying in Beirut, showcasing the group's enduring influence and the public's backing of its military posture [https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/middle-east/hezbollah-chief-says-will-not-surrender-under-threat-from-israel-1889763]. - **International Pressure**: - There is ongoing international pressure for Hezbollah to disarm, particularly from the United States and Israel, which Qassem has dismissed as unacceptable until Israeli aggression ceases [https://www.turkiyetoday.com/region/hezbollah-leader-rejects-disarmament-amid-israeli-ceasefire-violations-3203910]. ### Conclusion: Hezbollah's Firm Stance Amidst Regional Tensions In summary, Hezbollah's leader Naim Qassem has made it clear that the group will not surrender or disarm under Israeli threats, asserting that such actions will only occur after Israel ceases its military operations and withdraws from southern Lebanon. This position is supported by a strong public backing demonstrated during significant religious gatherings and reflects the complex interplay of regional politics, military strategy, and national sovereignty. 1. **Hezbollah's Commitment**: The group remains steadfast in its military posture, viewing disarmament as contingent upon Israeli actions. 2. **Public Support**: The large turnout during Ashoura highlights the group's continued influence and support among its base. 3. **Ongoing Conflict**: The situation remains tense, with Israeli airstrikes continuing to provoke strong responses from Hezbollah. This ongoing conflict underscores the challenges of achieving lasting peace in the region, as both sides remain entrenched in their positions [https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/hezbollah-leader-says-group-wont-surrender-or-disarm-amid-israeli-threats-article-13234688.html][https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20250705-hezbollah-rejects-calls-to-disarm-before-end-of-israeli-aggression-against-lebanon].