Amid intense Israeli bombing and a growing conflict in Lebanon, Naim Qasemnew leader of Hezbollahstated that the Islamist group will maintain its resistance against the Israeli army, despite the significant blows suffered.
Qasemwho addressed the nation after his appointment, also indicated that he would accept a ceasefire, but only under certain conditions, which represents a distant agreement.
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Since the start of hostilities in September, Israeli forces have intensified their attacks on Israeli positions. Hezbollah, including bombings in Baalbek and Sohmorwhere at least eleven deaths were reported from the airstrikes. Israel also confirmed the death of Mustafa Ahmad Shahadisecond in command of Hezbollah, which increases the number of senior members of the group eliminated in recent weeks.
The prime minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati, revealed that US officials, including special envoy Amos Hochstein, They are in talks for a possible ceasefire. Hochstein was “cautiously optimistic” about a deal before the US presidential election on November 5.
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However, Israel demands the withdrawal of Hezbollah from southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese army to the border, in addition to an international mechanism to enforce the truce.
Havoc of continuous attacks
As violence continues, more than 1,754 people have lost their lives in Lebanon since September 23, in the context of an offensive that seeks to neutralize the Islamist group Hezbollah. In response, the group launched drones and rockets at Israeli military facilities, claiming to have bypassed security systems. anti-aircraft defense.
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Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating rapidly, with severe food shortages affecting more than 80% of the population.
Negotiations for a temporary truce, which includes an exchange of hostages and the expansion of humanitarian aid, continue between Qatar, Egypt and the United Statesin an effort to mitigate the impact of this prolonged conflict.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Middle East Analyst Dr. Layla Farah
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Farah. Thank you for joining us today. Following the recent surge in hostility between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly with Naim Qasem’s recent statements as the new leader of Hezbollah, how do you assess the current situation in Lebanon and the broader region?
Dr. Layla Farah: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The situation is indeed increasingly complex and precarious. Qasem’s insistence on continuing resistance against Israel implies a deeply entrenched stance within Hezbollah, despite the significant losses they have sustained, including the death of senior figures like Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi. This sets the stage for a prolonged conflict rather than a quick resolution.
Time.news Editor: Qasem also mentioned he would consider a ceasefire but with specific conditions. What do you think those conditions might entail?
Dr. Layla Farah: The conditions for a ceasefire from Hezbollah’s perspective could involve security guarantees, the acknowledgment of their military stance within the region, and possibly concessions regarding territorial disputes. However, given the recent escalations, reaching a consensus with Israel or other stakeholders appears quite distant at this point.
Time.news Editor: It seems that the internal and external pressures are mounting for both sides. Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati has been in talks with U.S. officials, including special envoy Amos Hochstein, for a potential ceasefire. How crucial do you believe U.S. involvement is in these discussions?
Dr. Layla Farah: The U.S. plays a significant role, given its historical influence in the region. Hochstein’s cautious optimism suggests a willingness to mediate, but the effectiveness of these talks will depend heavily on mutual trust, which is currently low. The upcoming U.S. presidential election further complicates the situation as political priorities may shift dramatically.
Time.news Editor: In light of the intense airstrikes and significant casualties in places like Baalbek and Sohmor, how do you think this escalation will affect civilian sentiment in Lebanon and the support for Hezbollah?
Dr. Layla Farah: Civilian sentiment is complex. On one hand, there may be solidarity with Hezbollah due to perceived external aggression. However, increased casualties and destruction can also lead to frustration and a desire for peace, particularly among those who bear the brunt of the conflict. The way Hezbollah frames its narrative in the face of these losses will be pivotal.
Time.news Editor: As an expert in Middle Eastern politics, what do you think the future holds for Hezbollah and its relationship with the Lebanese government and the international community?
Dr. Layla Farah: Hezbollah’s future will hinge on its ability to navigate both local discontent and international pressures. While it may retain a strong militant presence, the need for engagement with the Lebanese government and potential negotiations with global powers is essential for long-term survival and legitimacy. The regional landscape is evolving, and how Hezbollah adapts to these changes will ultimately define its role.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Farah, for your insights. It seems the situation is tightly interwoven with regional dynamics and internal politics, which will undoubtedly unfold in the coming weeks.
Dr. Layla Farah: Absolutely. It will be crucial for those monitoring the developments to pay attention to both military movements and diplomatic overtures as they evolve. Thank you for having me.