Key facts
- Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem stated that Israel's 2006 war demonstrated that the "occupying regime only understands the language of force."
- Qassem said the 2006 war began with the capture of two Israeli soldiers to secure the release of Lebanese captives.
- Hezbollah's leader insisted Israel must withdraw unconditionally from Lebanese territory.
- Qassem warned against any commitments that would compromise Lebanon's sovereignty.
- Hezbollah rejected ceasefire terms and insisted on its right to fight Israel.
- Qassem praised Iran for its stance against Israel and the US.
Hezbollah's secretary general, Sheikh Naim Qassem, stated that Israel's 33-day war against Lebanon in 2006 proved that "the occupying regime only understands the language of force," according to Press TV.
In a speech marking the anniversary of Hezbollah’s "victory" in the 2006 war, Qassem said the conflict began after Hezbollah captured two Israeli soldiers with the aim of securing the release of Lebanese abductees from Israeli jails. He noted that this action was necessary after all other communication and diplomatic efforts failed.