Beirut: "We have entered a new phase against Israel," declared Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem in his address marking the Day of Ashura on Friday, reaffirming the party's resolute stance on armed resistance and calling for the full withdrawal of Israel from Lebanese territory, while firmly rejecting any future normalization with the state.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Qassem stated that Hezbollah had successfully thwarted efforts by the US and Israel to eliminate the party, highlighting a "new phase" of confrontation following the breakdown of the Israeli-American project. He commended Iran's support for the regional "Axis of Resistance," noting that Tehran has emerged stronger after its recent confrontations with Israel and the United States.

Addressing Hezbollah's priorities, Qassem insisted on Israel's unconditional withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the cessation of military operations, stressing the importance of maintaining Lebanon's sovereignty. He emphasized that Hezbollah's resistance remains a fundamental aspect of Lebanon's independence and liberation.

Qassem urged Lebanese authorities to focus on national unity, reconstruction, economic recovery, and the restitution of depositors' funds. He called for discussions on a comprehensive national security strategy to occur only post-Israeli withdrawal.

He further advised the Lebanese state to leverage improved US-Iran understandings, rejecting external pressures to disarm Hezbollah or normalize relations with Israel. Qassem welcomed international support aimed at enhancing Lebanon's sovereignty, rebuilding the nation, bolstering the Lebanese Army, and ensuring Israel's complete withdrawal.

In conclusion, Qassem reiterated Hezbollah's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, lauding the people of Gaza, along with Iran, Yemen, and Iraq, for their backing of the resistance front.