Hezbollah and Israel Exchange Warnings Amid Lebanon Tensions

Naim Qassem, the deputy secretary-general of Hezbollah, stated that Israel will not remain in Lebanon. He affirmed that the group will defend itself and will only adhere to a ceasefire if it includes a complete halt to aggression. Qassem also indicated that Hezbollah will respond to any ceasefire violations with resistance.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will remain in the security zone of southern Lebanon for as long as necessary. He said that the forces will continue their attacks in response to threats from Hezbollah to protect northern residents.

Clashes continue in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire announcement. Dozens have been reported killed in recent attacks in the area.

The crisis in Lebanon has now entered Iran-US talks in Switzerland. Iran insists that stopping Israeli operations in Lebanon must be part of any agreement. The United States has warned that it will target Iran again if Tehran continues supporting Hezbollah.