Story perspectives

Hezbollah's Qassem Declares Weapons Non-Negotiable Amid Discontent

12/7/2025

Summary

Hezbollah's Weapons Stance

Naim Qassem, Hezbollah deputy leader, reaffirms the group's weapons as non-negotiable.
He criticizes Lebanon's decision to send a civilian to the ceasefire committee.
Many Shia Lebanese express discontent and urge the Lebanese Army to be the sole armed force.
Youssef Rajji, Lebanon's Foreign Minister, says disarmament depends on Iran's decision and government control over territory.
Despite a ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes continue, hindering Lebanon's disarmament efforts.

Summary

Iraq Reverses Terror Designation

The government of Iraq retracted its November 17 designation of Hezbollah and the Houthis as terrorist organizations, which aimed to freeze assets linked to these groups.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani of Iraq announced an investigation into the error.
The reversal reflects growing pressure on Baghdad to balance U.S. demands against Iranian influence amid ongoing regional tensions.
The decision complicates Iraq's political landscape as authorities navigate competing regional pressures.

History

Historical Context

Hezbollah was formed in 1982 by Lebanese clerics in response to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, which displaced around 400,000 people and exacerbated Shia marginalization. The group, backed by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, has since evolved into a powerful political and military force, challenging the Lebanese Army's authority and complicating regional stability amid ongoing U.S. and Iranian influences.

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Hezbollah's Weapons Stance

Naim Qassem, Hezbollah deputy leader, reaffirms the group's weapons as non-negotiable.
He criticizes Lebanon's decision to send a civilian to the ceasefire committee.
Many Shia Lebanese express discontent and urge the Lebanese Army to be the sole armed force.
Youssef Rajji, Lebanon's Foreign Minister, says disarmament depends on Iran's decision and government control over territory.
Despite a ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes continue, hindering Lebanon's disarmament efforts.

1 / 3