Hizbullah warns Israel of potential "painful" response
Beirut (ANTARA) - Hizbullah leader Naim Qassem on Monday warned that Israel would face a "painful" response if tensions escalate, and accused the United States of directly supporting Israeli military operations and regional expansion.
Speaking at a memorial ceremony, Qassem said in a speech broadcast by al-Manar television that Israel was pursuing a "maximum pressure" strategy aimed at forcing political concessions whilst avoiding the costs of a wider war.
He added that although Israel may achieve tactical military superiority in certain confrontations, it would be unable to impose lasting control or stability.
Qassem described Israel as an "expansionist entity" seeking to extend territorial control across Palestine and the broader region.
He also warned of gradual and formal annexation efforts in the occupied West Bank. Qassem highlighted developments in Gaza, claiming that most of the territory is now under direct Israeli control.
He further described the US as a "full partner" in Israel's actions, alleging that Washington is involved in managing operations and providing political and diplomatic support for both military campaigns and territorial expansion.
Hizbullah and Israel have been engaged in cross-border fighting following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023.
A ceasefire agreement between the two sides has been in effect since 27 November 2024. Despite the agreement, Israel has continued to carry out periodic strikes in Lebanon, claiming they are aimed at eliminating Hizbullah threats.
Speaking at a memorial ceremony, Qassem said in a speech broadcast by al-Manar television that Israel was pursuing a "maximum pressure" strategy aimed at forcing political concessions whilst avoiding the costs of a wider war.
He added that although Israel may achieve tactical military superiority in certain confrontations, it would be unable to impose lasting control or stability.
Qassem described Israel as an "expansionist entity" seeking to extend territorial control across Palestine and the broader region.
He also warned of gradual and formal annexation efforts in the occupied West Bank. Qassem highlighted developments in Gaza, claiming that most of the territory is now under direct Israeli control.
He further described the US as a "full partner" in Israel's actions, alleging that Washington is involved in managing operations and providing political and diplomatic support for both military campaigns and territorial expansion.
Hizbullah and Israel have been engaged in cross-border fighting following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023.
A ceasefire agreement between the two sides has been in effect since 27 November 2024. Despite the agreement, Israel has continued to carry out periodic strikes in Lebanon, claiming they are aimed at eliminating Hizbullah threats.