Nasrallah's 'temporary' replacement Qassem made his first speech as Hezbollah leader since being appointed to the position, where he adresses the war, reveals the organisations next steps, and off course threatens Netanyahu. At the same time, a cyber attack was reported in Lebanon, though Hezbollah later managed to restore the broadcast.
"The key question is—what is the leader's plan of action?" Qassem stated. "My plan is to continue Hassan Nasrallah's strategy in all areas—political, cultural, and jihad. We will uphold the war plan established with the organization’s leadership, maintaining our commitment to the war path while addressing political challenges and responding to developments."
He added, "Netanyahu justified his war in Lebanon as necessary for a new Middle East, while his ministers announced plans for settlements in southern Lebanon. This is an American-European-Israeli war aimed at dismantling the resistance."
Qassem asserted, "For 11 months, we have stated that we do not seek war, but we are ready if it is thrust upon us, and we will emerge victorious. Our fight is not on behalf of anyone else but to protect Lebanon, liberate our land, and support Gaza."
"The enemy suffers an average of three casualties a day and has yet to achieve its war objectives. Our combat is exceptional and unparalleled," he remarked.
Qassem also issued a direct threat to Netanyahu, saying, "Netanyahu is frightened by the drones we directed toward his residence. This time, he was spared. Diplomats warned us about attacking his home, and we replied that Israel had attacked our leader, Nasrallah. He was saved this time, but we cannot predict when he will die; it could be that one of his own people will take him out, or he might die during one of his speeches."