Hezbollah is designated as a terrorist organisation by Western states, Israel, and some Gulf Arab states. We just brought you comments from Hezbollah's deputy chief, Naim Qassem. But what is Hezbollah? Me It's a Shia Muslim political party and armed group that receives strong financial and military backing from Iran. The Lebanon-based group has a significant presence in the Lebanese parliament and govt controls the most powerful armed force in the country.
Hezbollah rose prominence in 1980s in opposition to Israel, whose forces had occupied southern Lebanon during the country's 1975-1990 civil war.
When Israeli troops withdrew from Lebanon in 2000, Hezbollah took credit for pushing them out and continues to oppose Israel's presence in disputed border areas. In 2006, a full-blown war broke out between Hezbollah and Israel, triggered by a deadly cross-border raid by Hezbollah.
Israeli troops invaded southern Lebanon to try to eliminate threat from Hezbollah. About 1,000 civilians were killed in conflict but Hezbollah claimed victory has since increased its number of fighters & upgraded its weapons.
What is Hezbollah and why is it attacking Israel?.
Hezbollah ready for ground offensive, says deputy
Qassem now said.
Analysis -- Naim Qassem's speech was announced by Hezbollah’s press office only about an hour be4 it was broadcast. A first speech by a high-rank Hezbollah official since they lost their leader Hassan Nasrallah.
It was clear he wanted to send the message that, despite the unprecedented blow Hezbollah has faced, the group will be standing, reorganising and continuing its fight against Israel. On who is going to replace Hassan Nasrallah, he said their council will decide soon. But all those commanders & top-rank officials had deputies who can step in. He also said that Hezbollah knows that the battle "may be long", and the options are "open to them".
"We are ready for a ground invasion, and we will emerge victorious," he said.
And he thanked all the Lebanese people, and the govt. It was clear that his speech was dedicated to group’s supporters & fighters & main message was that no matter who dies, "the resistance" will replace them and stay powerful.
https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c981g8mrl8lt