Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, has reaffirmed his group’s commitment to supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as Islamist-led rebels continue their sweeping offensive in the country. In a televised address, Qassem condemned what he described as “terrorist groups” aiming to “destroy Syria again,” destabilise the regime, and “create chaos.”
Qassem emphasised that despite the recent advances made by the rebels, Hezbollah would remain steadfast in its support for Syria and work to thwart the rebels’ objectives. He did not specify the type of support his group would offer but stressed that Hezbollah would do everything within its power to counter the offensive.
While Qassem’s comments reflect a firm stance, Hezbollah has faced significant challenges in recent months, including heavy losses in its ongoing conflict with Israel, which reached a fragile ceasefire on November 27—the same day Syrian rebels launched their new offensive.
Accusing the United States and Israel of backing what he called “takfiri” factions—groups associated with radical Sunni Islam—Qassem voiced his opposition to foreign interference in Syria’s ongoing civil war, highlighting Hezbollah’s continued alliance with the Assad regime.
