In a recent statement, Hezbollah’s deputy chief voiced support for a Lebanon ceasefire but notably refrained from addressing the possibility of a Gaza agreement.

In comments broadcast on Tuesday, Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem stated that his group endorses efforts to achieve a ceasefire for Lebanon. Notably, he did not mention the need for a Gaza truce deal as a prerequisite for stopping the group’s fire on Israel.

Qassem mentioned that Hezbollah backed initiatives by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, an ally of the group, to achieve a ceasefire. This comes amid escalating conflict in recent weeks due to Israeli ground incursions and the assassination of several top Hezbollah leaders, including Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

Qassem expressed support for Berri’s political actions aimed at establishing a ceasefire during his 30-minute televised address.

He asserted that once a ceasefire is reached and diplomatic efforts prove successful, all remaining details can be negotiated and decisions can be finalized. “If the conflict with Israel persists, then outcomes will be determined on the battlefield.”

A year ago, Hezbollah started firing missiles at Israel to support its ally Hamas. This action followed a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel that occurred on October 7, 2023, escalating the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

Hezbollah’s top leaders have consistently stated over the past year that they will not cease fire until a Gaza ceasefire is achieved. However, Qassem’s recent address seems to represent a shift from this stance.

Israeli strikes have been targeting the group’s stronghold in Beirut’s southern suburbs each night, while ground incursions broadened on Tuesday to include more areas along Lebanon’s southern border with Israel.

Qassem expressed a defiant stance, asserting that the group’s capabilities remained intact and had intensified its rocket fire on Israel. He also indicated eagerness for “clashes” with Israeli forces in Lebanon.

Reuters