In a defiant speech, Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah urged his followers and Arab nations to join in the fight against Israel following recent Israeli strikes and an attack on U.S. troops in Iraq. Israel, fearing retaliation from Hezbollah or Iran, has heightened its preparations and appealed to Western allies for support.
Hezbollah's Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah has issued a fiery eulogy for a recently deceased senior commander, using the occasion to launch a scathing attack on Israel and rally support for a wider fight against the Jewish state.
Nasrallah accused Israel of relying heavily on its allies to maintain its relevance, claiming that its deterrence capabilities have diminished. He asserted that Israel's perceived weakness stems from its fear of Iran's response or that of Hezbollah, leading it to seek assistance from the United States and Western countries.
Hezbollah, Iran Escalate Tensions as Israel Prepares for Retaliation
"The Israeli danger cannot be faced by playing ostrich and running away from the storm, because the enemy fights without red lines," Nasrallah said, emphasizing the need for confrontation rather than submission.
The speech came just days after Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) planes overflew Beirut, prompting Nasrallah to criticize Israel's "petty" behavior. He urged "patience" as Hezbollah and Iran planned their responses to Israel's actions, but also urged other Arab nations to join the fight.
Hezbollah, Iran Escalate Tensions as Israel Prepares for Retaliation
"We are in a battle that has an end. We call on the resistance in Gaza and the West Bank to show more patience and firmness," Nasrallah said. "We call on the support fronts in Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen to continue supporting Gaza despite the sacrifices. We call on Arab countries to wake up to the danger threatening the region."
Israel has been on high alert since the killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, for which Iran holds Israel responsible. Security authorities have instructed residents near the border with Lebanon to remain in protected areas in anticipation of potential attacks from Hezbollah.
Hezbollah, Iran Escalate Tensions as Israel Prepares for Retaliation
The IDF has released a video titled "Taking down the threat of Hezbollah, one by one," showcasing its operations against senior Hezbollah commanders. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has stated that the IDF is "determined, consistent, and powerful," adding that he has coordinated with U.S. military leaders who have pledged support for Israel.
"The cooperation between Israel and the United States is critical to our readiness," Gallant said.
Hezbollah, Iran Escalate Tensions as Israel Prepares for Retaliation
Despite Nasrallah's defiant speech, the IDF has emphasized its accomplishments in recent months, including successful attacks in Houdeidah and the устранение of Hamas military commanders Mohammed Deif and Rafa Salama.
"After they killed 12 of our children in Majdal Shams, you eliminated Muhsan — Hezbollah's military chief and Nasrallah's right-hand man," Gallant told Israeli troops. "You did all of this using accurate intelligence and powerful capabilities."
Gallant highlighted the values that guide the IDF: courage, determination, and perseverance. He said, "Each of you represents the values that drive us — courage, determination, and perseverance."
