Hezbollah Chief Says Ceasefire Proposal Reviewed, Ceasefire Now in Israel’s Hands

BEIRUT – Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated in a televised speech on Wednesday that his group had reviewed and provided feedback on a U.S.-drafted ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the ongoing fighting with Israel. He emphasized that the decision to halt hostilities now lies with Israel.

Qassem’s remarks came shortly after U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein announced plans to travel to Israel to push for a truce, following two days of talks with Lebanese officials, including meetings with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a close Hezbollah ally.

The Hezbollah chief confirmed that his Iran-backed group had examined the draft ceasefire agreement and engaged in detailed discussions with the U.S. envoy, offering constructive feedback. “These comments were presented to the U.S. envoy and discussed in detail,” Qassem said. “The feedback reflects our approval of the indirect negotiation process through Speaker Berri.”

However, Qassem firmly rejected any idea that Israel would continue its strikes on Hezbollah even after a ceasefire agreement is reached, insisting that Israel must respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and refrain from violating its territorial integrity.