Hezbollah Rejects Israel-Lebanon Deal
Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem has rejected the new Israel-Lebanon framework agreement, calling it “null” and a surrender of Lebanese sovereignty. He said any deal linking Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon to Hezbollah’s disarmament would cross the group’s red lines.
Hezbollah Rejects Israel-Lebanon Framework Agreement
Qassem criticised the framework agreement signed in Washington, describing it as humiliating for Lebanon. He argued that the deal should not be treated as a valid basis for ending the conflict with Israel.
The Hezbollah chief said Lebanon should instead rely on the Iran-U.S. memorandum, which he claimed offers a more acceptable framework for addressing the crisis. His remarks signal strong opposition from Hezbollah to any settlement that imposes conditions on the group’s weapons.
Hezbollah Disarmament Remains Key Sticking Point
The agreement is understood to link Israel’s withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon with steps toward the disarmament of Hezbollah and other non-state armed groups.
Qassem rejected that condition, saying Israel’s withdrawal must not be tied to Hezbollah giving up its arms. He said such a move would violate Lebanon’s sovereignty and weaken its position against Israel.
Israel-Lebanon Deal Faces Political Uncertainty
Hezbollah’s rejection raises fresh questions over the implementation of the U.S.-backed framework. The group continues to wield major military and political influence in Lebanon, making its opposition a serious challenge to any long-term security arrangement.
The dispute comes amid continued tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, where ceasefire efforts remain fragile. While the agreement is being presented as a roadmap toward stability, Hezbollah’s position could complicate efforts to turn the framework into a durable settlement.
