Hezbollah chief says Lebanon-Israel deal puts undue pressure on army

In a recent statement, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem denounced the Lebanese government's decision to implement a framework deal with Israel aimed at ending hostilities. The June framework, which also involves the United States, calls for the disarmament of Hezbollah and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.

Qassem argued that the deal puts undue pressure on the Lebanese army, exposing it to bombardment and Israeli intimidation. He questioned why the army should be subjected to such treatment when it should be protected by the government.

During recent talks between Lebanon and Israel in Rome, both sides discussed the formation of a committee responsible for verifying the Lebanese army's deployment in pilot zones and the clearance of Hezbollah weapons and infrastructure. However, Qassem criticized Israel for attempting to bind Lebanon to an inquiry committee overseeing the army's operations. He questioned the patriotism and dignity of the army, which he believed ought to be preserved.

Qassem reiterated Hezbollah's rejection of the direct talks and its refusal to surrender its weapons. The United States announced on Tuesday that it would sponsor a new round of negotiations between Israel and Lebanon in Rome at the beginning of September. However, Qassem reiterated the group's rejection of the framework deal and called on Lebanese officials to reconsider their decision.