Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem comments on conflict with Israel

On March 13, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem addressed the ongoing conflict with Israel, labeling it an existential struggle. Qassem dismissed Israeli threats of assassination as insignificant and warned that his organization is prepared for a long-term confrontation. He also criticized the Lebanese government for making concessions to Israel, specifically objecting to recent measures banning Hezbollah's military activities. Tensions escalated on March 2 when Hezbollah initiated fire against Israeli positions, allegedly in retaliation for the death of an Iranian leader. Simultaneously, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz issued a formal warning to the Lebanese government. Katz stated that if Hezbollah is not contained, Israel may seize Lebanese territory to ensure its own national security. The conflicting narratives highlight the growing instability between the two parties.