Hezbollah's Qassem warns IDF: 'We are ready' for invasion

In Lebanon, Hezbollah's deputy leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, addressed the group’s members following the recent killing of their leader, Hassan Nasrallah, by Israeli airstrikes. This marked the first public statement from a senior Hezbollah figure since the incident, which occurred three days prior. Qassem reassured members about contingency plans to ensure leadership continuity and denied that Israeli attacks had significantly weakened Hezbollah's military capabilities. He emphasized the group's readiness to confront any potential Israeli ground invasion, asserting their commitment to supporting Gaza and Palestine. The backdrop of these developments includes a series of intense Israeli military operations targeting Hezbollah strongholds, which have resulted in numerous casualties among the group’s fighters and leaders. Qassem's statements were aimed at bolstering morale within Hezbollah amidst these challenges. He also refuted claims regarding the circumstances of Nasrallah's death, clarifying that he was not killed during a high-level meeting as suggested by Israeli sources. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about a broader escalation in the region, with fears that Israel's military actions could provoke responses from Iran and its allies. The situation remains tense, with Israeli forces poised for potential ground operations in southern Lebanon, which could further destabilize the area. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, as they could have significant implications for regional security. As Lebanon prepares for a parliamentary session to elect a new president, the political landscape is also affected by the ongoing violence and instability. The situation underscores the fragile state of affairs in Lebanon and the potential for wider conflict in the Middle East.