Sheikh Naim Qassem: Hezbollah will not Surrender to Pressures, Sanctions

Translated by Staff

Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem believes that America cannot tolerate an independent and honorable Iran. Furthermore, he explained that the Americans cannot stomach an Iran that supports the vulnerable.

"The issue is not a nuclear issue or a violation of international resolutions. It is rather a project. If it spreads and becomes strong, all the people of the region will be free because they will take Iran as a model," said Sheikh Qassem during a political meeting. “They will liberate their lands, become independent, and will prevent arrogance from playing any negative role in their countries. And this is not what the arrogance nor America want."

The senior Hezbollah official asserted that Iran succeeded in becoming a great nation that protects itself and the flag of the free people in the world. This is why it is being challenged today.

"Today we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Today Iran is the world’s third gem in terms of its achievements and progress and its great people, who deserve to live with pride and dignity. They are an indestructible people," he said. "The whole region has rejected tyranny and slavery. It has a negative stance against American unilateralism and control as well as “Israel’s” presence in the region. This is all thanks to Iran."

Sheikh Qassem attributed the crises of today to the US, including the crisis with “Israel”, which he said is the result of American efforts to legitimize its existence in the region.

He stressed that Hezbollah will not surrender to pressures or sanctions. These sanctions will not affect its stance. Instead, the embargo will strengthen its conviction and make it firmer.

"We consider these sanctions to be an integral part of the challenge and the test," he added.

"We will not abandon our land, and we will not accept to remain occupied by “Israel”. We have the right to defend this land no matter how long. We will not accept to be followers of America whatever the temptations and pressures are because we have the right to live independently in our country," he said.

"Today the Lebanese government is complete. We must not go back to the past. Let us begin from now," he continued.

"The government should work seriously and actively on some issues,” Sheikh Qassem added. “The economic issue should be addressed first. The second is the social issue and the interests of the people. The third is the fight against corruption."