Hezbollah's Qasim Rejects Ceasefire Talks as 'Humiliating'

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qasim on Thursday rejected ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Israel, describing the talks as "humiliating" and any agreement based on disarmament as unacceptable. Qasim said current negotiation outcomes were "absurd and shameful," arguing the United States and Israel seek to place Lebanon under control. He said disarmament would destroy Lebanon's strength and threaten the existence of its people. The Hezbollah leader insisted Israel must withdraw completely from Lebanese territory and stop all attacks. He said resistance would continue as long as occupation persists, and warned that Israeli settlements would not be safe if attacks on Lebanese villages continue. Qasim called on Lebanese officials to halt the negotiations. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said he remains optimistic about reaching a sustainable agreement as internationally mediated talks resume.