[News] Hezbollah Retains Right to Respond to Targeted Killing in Beirut Suburb

[Anti-Imperialist News]

palestinechronicle.com
<https://www.palestinechronicle.com/qassem-hezbollah-retains-right-to-respond-to-targeted-killing-in-beirut-suburb/>
Qassem: Hezbollah Retains Right to Respond to Targeted Killing in Beirut
SuburbNovember 29, 2025
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Hezbollah Secretary-General, Naim Qassem. (Photo: video grab, via
Al-Mayadeen)

*By Palestine Chronicle Staff
<https://www.palestinechronicle.com/writers/palestine-chronicle-staff>*

Qassem reaffirmed that Hezbollah’s weapons serve as a deterrent to Israel,
and that calls to disarm the resistance align with Israeli strategic
interests.

Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem described the assassination
of Commander Haitham Ali al-Tabatabai and his comrades as “a blatant act of
aggression and a heinous crime,” reiterating that the movement reserves the
right to respond at a time of its choosing.

Speaking during a memorial ceremony for the fallen commander and his four
companions on Friday, Qassem said the assassination failed to achieve its
intended objective and that Hezbollah would continue pursuing the same
path. He stated that the killing of a leading figure in the military
structure was aimed at undermining morale and creating confusion, but that
this attempt had not succeeded.

On November 23, an Israeli airstrike targeted a residential building in
Beirut’s southern suburb, killing Haitham Ali al-Tabatabai—Hezbollah’s
Chief of Staff—and four others.
Ceasefire as a Strategic Gain

Qassem also addressed the one-year anniversary of the ceasefire and
cessation of hostilities agreement, describing it as a victory for
Hezbollah, Lebanon, and the Lebanese public. He argued that the agreement
prevented Israel from accomplishing its declared objectives, particularly
the elimination of the resistance.

He said the confrontation was carried out by a force significantly smaller
than its adversary, yet rooted in determination, discipline, and a belief
in eventual victory.

According to Qassem, the agreement was achieved because the resistance and
its supporters remained steadfast, anchored by ideology, national
belonging, and attachment to the land.
*Lebanon, Sovereignty, and Resistance Weapons*

Commenting on political tensions in Lebanon, including criticism directed
at the President and the Army Commander, Qassem said Israeli aggression
targets all Lebanese institutions, not just Hezbollah.

He reaffirmed that Hezbollah’s weapons serve as a deterrent to Israel, and
that calls to disarm the resistance align with Israeli strategic interests.

While stating that the Lebanese state remains responsible for national
defense, Qassem argued that it has neither secured liberation nor provided
comprehensive protection. He urged the state to use the capabilities of the
resistance to prevent Israel from establishing new facts on the ground.

Qassem also emphasized that opposition to Israel inside Lebanon extends
beyond Hezbollah’s support base. Meanwhile, he accused a small domestic
faction of working toward Israeli and US political agendas, hindering
national unity and stability.
*On Threats, Pressure, and Possible Escalation*

Responding to international and regional pressure, Qassem said recent
statements against Hezbollah amounted to political posturing after a year
of unsuccessful attempts to shift the balance. He added that whether
escalation or de-escalation occurs depends on decisions made by Israel and
the United States.

Qassem maintained that neither Hezbollah nor its constituents would
surrender or accept subordination to foreign powers, saying the only path
forward is to halt Israeli aggression. If it continues, he said, the
Lebanese government must assert itself and use available tools.

He added that the sacrifices of those killed would not be wasted, and
called for internal unity, warning that concessions only encourage further
coercion.
*Additional Remarks*

Qassem welcomed the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon and said an
open letter addressed to him would soon be made public.

He also referred to the recent armed confrontation in Beit Jinn, Syria,
calling it evidence that Syrians remain unwilling to accept Israeli control.

Speaking about Haitham Ali al-Tabatabai, Qassem described him as a key
architect of the People of Might Battle, highlighting his operational
planning, leadership, and readiness for evolving battlefield conditions.

Qassem concluded by reiterating that Hezbollah views the region as an
active battlefield in which Israel operates with broad intelligence
backing, including from the United States and Arab governments.

*(PC, Al Mayadeen)*
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