"We Will Not Bow Down": Hezbollah Chief Outlines 5 Demands to End Conflict

In a powerful address on Monday (April 27), Qassem asserted, "No matter the threats, we will not retreat, we will not surrender, and we will not be defeated." He promised displaced residents a safe return and a collaborative rebuilding of the nation. Criticizing direct talks between Lebanese authorities and Israel as "insulting concessions," he called for a return to indirect negotiations while maintaining that the group would never lay down its arms, as they are essential for national defense.

To resolve the ongoing crisis, Naim Qassem presented five core demands: 1) Immediate cessation of Israeli aggression by land, sea, and air; 2) Full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese soil; 3) Release of all detainees; 4) The return of displaced citizens to their homes; and 5) Commencement of national reconstruction. Highlighting the pivotal role of Iran in brokering a ceasefire, he stated that the situation has permanently shifted and there is no going back to the pre-March 2 status quo. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, the death toll since the escalation began on March 2, 2026, has already surpassed 2,500, with over 7,800 injured.