Hezbollah’s deputy secretary delivers 1st address after Nasrallah’s assassination

Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem delivered a significant speech two days after the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah. This marks the first address by a senior Hezbollah leader since the killing.

Qassem emphasized that Israel is living in an illusion if it believes it can succeed by committing massacres. He stated, “Nasrallah will live on among us and will always be a part of us.”

Qassem remarked on the readiness of resistance forces, saying, “If Israel wants a ground incursion, the resistance forces are ready, and victory will be ours.”

He also stated that Hezbollah would appoint a new secretary general sooner rather than later, assuring that all positions within the organization would be filled promptly.

Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, Qassem declared, “The group has lost a brother, a leader.” He extended his condolences to the families of other martyrs, stating that they were with Nasrallah during the last moments.

Qassem criticized Israel’s actions, accusing it of committing atrocities and crimes across various regions in Lebanon, targeting specific villages and homes, and attacking health workers and civilians indiscriminately. “These are not fighters; they are innocent people,” he insisted.

US support for Israel

He accused the U.S. of being a partner in the crimes committed in Gaza by supporting Israel’s actions through unlimited military and economic assistance.

“If they believe this barbarity will go unpunished, they are truly mistaken,” Qassem warned, affirming that Hezbollah lives with the love of martyrdom and has made significant sacrifices, especially after suffering losses in a recent attack.

Organizational strength and continuity of Hezbollah

He stated, “If our leader’s martyrdom had occurred in another organization, it would have collapsed. But we stand firm because we have hope, the support of the people and the help of God.”

Qassem reiterated that Hezbollah’s path is not solely protected by Nasrallah, asserting that the group will continue to strive toward its goals with its command group and leaders, as their brothers persist in their efforts.

“We will continue to follow the path laid out by Nasrallah. We also have alternative plans,” he said, assuring that everything necessary will be executed as planned to address any losses.

He urged observers to monitor the aftermath of Nasrallah’s assassination, stating, “We hit Israel, targeting Haifa, and they reported that 1 million Israelis fled. We accomplished this with just one missile. Currently, we are making only minimal efforts.”

Preparedness for long-term conflict

Qassem acknowledged that the war may extend longer but reassured that Hezbollah is prepared for all possibilities. “If they intend to launch a ground assault, we are ready. The resistance forces are prepared, and we are confident that the enemy, Israel, will never achieve its objectives.”

In conclusion, he said, “We will achieve victory. In the end, the victory will be ours.”