Sat Nov 02 20:02:00 UTC 2024: ## Hezbollah’s New Chief Vows No Beg for Ceasefire, Hints at Truce Under Own Terms
**BEIRUT, Lebanon -** Hezbollah’s newly appointed leader, Naim Qassem, has declared that the group will not “beg for a ceasefire” in its ongoing conflict with Israel, while hinting at a potential truce. However, Qassem stressed that any ceasefire would only be acceptable if it aligns with Hezbollah’s terms.
Qassem, who assumed the role of secretary general on October 29 following the assassination of his predecessor Hassan Nasrallah, has taken a more conciliatory stance towards a ceasefire than his predecessor. This marks the first time Hezbollah has publicly supported the ceasefire plan proposed by Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri without requiring a simultaneous truce with Hamas.
Qassem, a veteran Hezbollah member since the group’s founding in 1982, has served as the group’s deputy chief since 1991. He is known for his role as Hezbollah’s spokesperson and his involvement in various aspects of the group, including education, elections, and parliament.
Despite the ongoing conflict, which has seen fierce battles between Hezbollah and Israeli forces along the border, both sides are currently working on a 60-day truce. The agreement would see Hezbollah withdraw from south of the Litani river and Israeli forces withdraw from Lebanon.
The conflict has drawn international attention and criticism, particularly regarding Israel’s military operations and the presence of UN peacekeeping forces. While Israel maintains that its actions target Hezbollah infrastructure, the militant group claims the intervention has prevented Israel from occupying Lebanese villages.
The situation remains volatile, with tensions high between Hezbollah and Israel. While Qassem’s statement suggests a possibility for a truce, the specific terms of any agreement and its impact on the future of the conflict remain uncertain.
First Piper 