Beirut: Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem has emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of Lebanese prisoners held in Israeli jails, declaring that their release is crucial for the country's sovereignty and stability. Sheikh Qassem highlighted that stability cannot be achieved until all prisoners are freed and the fate of the missing is clarified.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Sheikh Qassem addressed prisoners and their families, stating that the suffering of detainees is a significant pain point in the confrontation with the Israeli enemy. He criticized Israel's treatment of prisoners as a violation of fundamental human rights and praised the prisoners for their resilience. Sheikh Qassem also acknowledged the emotional toll on the families and resistance fighters due to the detainees' plight.

Sheikh Qassem expressed disappointment over the Lebanese state's lack of effective action, pointing to inadequate pressure on allied nations and the exclusion of the prisoners' issue from national priorities. He called for increased official and popular mobilization, as well as international pressure, to facilitate the release of Lebanese prisoners.

In a letter dated January 25, 2026, Hezbollah's Sheikh Qassem urged the Lebanese government to leverage all available means and collaborate with countries involved in the ceasefire agreement to secure the prisoners' freedom. He assured the prisoners and their families of Hezbollah's unwavering support, stating, "We will not abandon you. We will work with all our capabilities to secure your freedom."

Sheikh Qassem described captivity as a badge of honor in the struggle for liberation and expressed respect for the families enduring the burden of captivity. He reiterated the commitment to resistance as a path marked by sacrifice and martyrdom, leading toward victory and the defense of the homeland.