Hezbollah Accuses Israel of ‘Hundreds of Violations’ of Truce Amid Rising Tensions
In a fiery speech broadcast by Hezbollah’s television channel, Al-Manar, Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem accused Israel of committing “hundreds of violations” of the ceasefire agreement, which is set to be fully implemented by January 26.The statement comes as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visits Lebanon, underscoring the fragile state of the truce.
“I call on the Lebanese state to show firmness in the face of these violations which have exceeded hundreds, this cannot continue,” Qassem declared. He emphasized that Hezbollah has exercised patience to allow the Lebanese government and international sponsors to address the breaches but warned, “Our patience should not be tested.”
The ceasefire, brokered after months of escalating tensions, mandates that the Lebanese army deploy alongside peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, while the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period. Together, Hezbollah, weakened by recent conflicts, is required to pull its forces north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the Lebanese-Israeli border.
Qassem, who succeeded the late Hassan Nasrallah after his assassination in an Israeli strike in September, has taken a firm stance in his new role. Nasrallah, a charismatic leader of Hezbollah, was killed in the southern suburbs of Beirut, further intensifying the group’s resolve.
the accusations of truce violations come at a critical juncture, with the January 26 deadline looming. The international community watches closely as the region teeters on the brink of renewed conflict.
Key Points of the Ceasefire Agreement
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Lebanese Army Role | Deploy alongside peacekeepers in southern Lebanon |
| Israeli Withdrawal | Complete withdrawal within 60 days (by January 26) |
| Hezbollah Withdrawal | forces must move north of the Litani River (30 km from the border) |
| deadline | Full implementation by January 26, 2025 |
As tensions escalate, the international community faces mounting pressure to ensure compliance with the ceasefire terms. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the region can achieve lasting peace or descend into further conflict.
Hezbollah,Israel,and the Fragile Ceasefire: A Deep Dive with Expert Dr. Nadim Khalidi
Senior Editor: dr. Khalidi, thank you for joining us today. The recent accusations by Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, that Israel has committed “hundreds of violations” of the ceasefire agreement have brought the region back into the spotlight. How significant are these allegations?
Dr.Nadim Khalidi: Thank you for having me. These allegations are indeed significant, as they come at a critical juncture in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. Hezbollah is framing these violations as a direct challenge to the terms of the truce, which were brokered after months of escalating tensions. Historically, accusations like these have been used to galvanize support and justify potential escalations. The fact that Qassem has emphasized “patience” while warning against testing it suggests a calculated approach to both domestic and international audiences.
Senior Editor: The ceasefire mandates key actions from both sides: the Lebanese army’s deployment alongside peacekeepers, Israel’s withdrawal within 60 days, and Hezbollah’s movement north of the Litani River.How feasible are these conditions, given the current climate?
Dr. Nadim Khalidi: The conditions are challenging, but not unfeasible. The Lebanese army’s deployment alongside peacekeepers in southern Lebanon is a critical step, as it provides a buffer zone and a semblance of stability. However, the Lebanese government’s capacity to enforce this is under scrutiny. On the other hand, Israel’s withdrawal within 60 days is a tight timeline, especially given the logistical and security challenges involved. Hezbollah’s withdrawal north of the Litani River is perhaps the most contentious, as it directly impacts the group’s operational capabilities near the border. Compliance with these terms will require genuine political will and international oversight.
Senior Editor: the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah in September has undoubtedly shifted Hezbollah’s internal dynamics. How has Naim Qassem’s leadership influenced the group’s stance on the ceasefire?
Dr.Nadim Khalidi: Nasrallah’s assassination was a significant blow to Hezbollah, both operationally and symbolically. Qassem, while not as charismatic as Nasrallah, has taken a firm and pragmatic stance. He has leveraged Nasrallah’s legacy to rally support internally while projecting strength externally. Qassem’s recent statements reflect a balancing act—maintaining Hezbollah’s resistance narrative while allowing space for the Lebanese government and international mediators to address the alleged violations. His leadership style appears to prioritize strategic patience, but with clear red lines.
Senior Editor: With the January 26, 2025, deadline looming, what do you see as the most likely scenarios for the region?
Dr. Nadim Khalidi: The next few weeks are pivotal.If the ceasefire terms are implemented as agreed, there’s a possibility of a temporary stabilization. However, if violations persist—or if either side perceives the other as acting in bad faith—the risk of renewed conflict is high. The international community, notably UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, has a crucial role in monitoring compliance and mediating disputes. Ultimately, the region’s fate hinges on whether the parties involved can navigate these tensions without resorting to escalation.
senior Editor: Dr. Khalidi, thank you for your insights. Your expertise has shed light on the complexities of this situation, and our readers will undoubtedly appreciate your analysis.
Dr. Nadim Khalidi: Thank you. It’s crucial to continue discussing these issues openly,as they have far-reaching implications for the region and beyond.
