Beirut: Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem has declared that the Lebanese state holds the primary responsibility for enforcing and ensuring adherence to the cease-fire agreement with Israel. In a recorded address to a conference in Tehran, Qassem underscored Lebanon's role as the negotiator of the agreement and its obligation to address any infractions by Israel.

According to Anadolu Agency, Qassem detailed the stages of the recent conflict with Israel, which commenced with Hezbollah's support for Gaza on October 8, 2023. This was followed by an extensive Israeli air campaign on Lebanon, culminating in a cease-fire phase that began on November 27. Qassem stated, "In the third phase, an agreement was reached that requires the (Israeli) enemy to end its aggression and withdraw from the occupied Lebanese territories."

Qassem further explained that Hezbollah is committed to ceasing defensive operations and withdrawing fighters and weapons from south of the Litani River. He emphasized that the Lebanese state, having signed the agreement, is now directly responsible for its enforcement and preventing further violations. He remarked, "The responsibility now lies with the Lebanese state, the countries that mediated the agreement, and the committee overseeing its implementation through political means until Israel exits Lebanon."

He accused Israel of numerous violations of the agreement, including aerial and ground assaults, house demolitions, and incursions into previously restricted areas. Addressing Hezbollah's decision to remain silent on Israeli violations, Qassem said, "We decided to give the agreement a chance, placing the responsibility for its enforcement on the Lebanese state."

Qassem noted that this is a political phase that the state is managing, aligning with those who believe the state should be responsible for implementing the agreement. "We are patient at this stage, believing that the responsibility lies with the state," he affirmed.

Highlighting Hezbollah's role, Qassem mentioned that the group has successfully thwarted Israel's advancement in the border region. He remarked, "There is now an opportunity for the Lebanese state to assert itself politically. The resistance is ongoing and has regained its strength. With its deep-rooted faith and committed fighters, it will continue to progress and grow stronger in the future."

The cease-fire terms stipulate that Israel must withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line, a de facto border, in phases, while the Lebanese army is expected to deploy in southern Lebanon within 60 days. Data from the Lebanese Health Ministry reveals that since Israel's offensive against Lebanon began on October 8, 2023, at least 4,063 victims have been killed, including women, children, and health workers, and 16,663 others have been injured.