Hezbollah Leader's Speech Sparks Mass Support, but No New Phase of Escalation
As tension continues to rise in the Middle East, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah delivered a speech on Friday, discussing the recent conflict and the role of Israel. Nasrallah praised the "wise, courageous" decision to attack and deemed it the beginning of a "new historic phase." However, many had expected Nasrallah to declare an open war against Israel, but his speech fell short of such a declaration.
Celebratory Gatherings in Favor of Nasrallah
Thousands of supporters rallied in various cities, including Beirut, Tehran, and Baghdad, to support the Hezbollah leader. In cities like Beirut and Baghdad, huge crowds gathered in central squares to follow Nasrallah's speech, waving Hezbollah and Palestine flags and displaying images of influential Iranian leaders. Cries of "God bless Nasrallah!" echoed amid the celebrations.
No New Phase of Escalation
Despite the tense atmosphere, Nasrallah's speech did not ignite a new phase of escalation against Israel. Though he delivered harsh words against Israel, Nasrallah did not announce a declaration of war against the Jewish state. Things may have otherwise gone differently, with some attributing the lack of escalation to the presence of US fighter ships in the region.
Hezbollah's Distance from the Gaza Conflict
Nasrallah made it clear that Hamas's October 7th operation, called "Operation Al-Aksa Flood," was entirely Palestinian. It had been kept secret from the "Axis of the Resistance" – a group of militias sponsored by Iran. In a transparent statement, Nasrallah emphasized the Palestinians' sole responsibility.
Aiming at the Great Devil: USA
In his address, Nasrallah highlighted the USA as a major enemy. He denounced the USA as the "great devil," holding the United States accountable for most of the massacres that have taken place. Nasrallah argued that such aggression must be met with consequences.
Continued Tension Along the Israel-Lebanon Border
Tensions at the Israel-Lebanon border remain high, with both sides exchanging fire in recent days. On Friday, an anti-tank missile was launched at an Israeli military post from Lebanon, prompting the Israeli army to retaliate with artillery fire. Hezbollah confirmed that the initial attack had occurred but maintained that it had no role in the conflict.
Since the start of the Gaza war, Hezbollah has engaged in border skirmishes with Israel, using artillery but not its more powerful rocket arsenal. The violence has led to casualties on both sides, with Hezbollah reporting at least 55 deaths among its ranks, and seven confirmed deaths on the Israeli side.
In summary, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah's speech to his supporters did not lead to a new phase of escalation against Israel, despite high expectations. Though Nasrallah harshly criticized Israel and the USA, he stopped short of announcing open war against Israel. The months-long Gaza conflict has caused ongoing tension along the Israel-Lebanon border, resulting in clashes between the two sides and casualties on both sides.
