The Al-Manar channel reported on Wednesday evening, quoting Naim Qassem, that “Israel is proceeding with its plans in all circumstances,” saying: “Stop talking about the exclusivity of weapons, and anyone who thinks they can remove the enemy’s pretexts is deluded because the enemy continues with its project.” He added, “Why don’t you support the resistance financially, or in the media, or politically, or socially, or in international forums? If the enemy removes the resistance, and it cannot, then your turn will be next. At least, do not stab the resistance in the back and do not stand by Israel.”
Qassem continued: “The resistance today is a strong barrier before Israel reaches your countries, your peoples, and your lands. By then, Israel and America will be unable to do anything. Move away from the issue of weapon exclusivity, don’t talk about concessions by the resistance, and don’t pressure it.”
Qassem pointed out that “Israel will continue, and only the resistance can stop it, so do not stab it in the back, and do not confront it, so it may work and advance forward.”
This is the first time since the Taif Agreement and the end of the civil war that the Council of Ministers is officially discussing such a matter, having previously been included under the framework of “resistance, protecting Lebanon, and deterring Israel.” The decision sparked widespread division among political circles and the Lebanese public, between supporters of the step and opponents who consider it an infringement on the role of the resistance.
