Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has urged Lebanon’s government to boycott upcoming talks with Israel in Washington, DC.
The statement comes as tensions escalate further amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic pressure in the region.
In a televised address, Qassem dismissed the planned meeting between Lebanese and Israeli representatives in Washington as “futile.”
The talks, scheduled for Tuesday, are expected to involve Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors to the United States discussing the possibility of direct negotiations.
‘Pressure to disarm Hezbollah’ claim
Qassem alleged that the proposed negotiations are aimed at forcing Hezbollah to lay down its weapons.
He argued that Israel has made its intentions clear, referencing repeated statements by Israeli leadership calling for the group’s disarmament.
According to him, entering such talks would amount to accepting predetermined outcomes.
Call for Lebanese govt to boycott talks
The Hezbollah leader urged Lebanon’s government to take what he described as a “historic and heroic stance” by refusing to participate in the discussions.
He warned that engaging in negotiations under current conditions would be a “concession” to Israel and the United States.
Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified since early March, following renewed cross-border attacks and military escalation.
Israeli forces have continued strikes in Lebanon, including a ground presence in the south, further worsening the humanitarian situation.
Casualties and displacement mount
According to available figures, the ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian impact.
At least 2,055 people have been killed, including children and medical workers, while thousands more have been injured.
The violence has also displaced an estimated 1.2 million people from their homes.
Lebanese authorities have emphasized that their priority remains securing a ceasefire.
However, Israel has pushed for broader negotiations that include discussions on Hezbollah’s disarmament and long-term regional arrangements.
