Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah delivered a televised speech following a significant clash between the Lebanese group and Israel.
Hezbollah’s strike on Sunday was in retaliation for the Israeli assassination of Fuad Shukr, a senior military commander, in Beirut last month.
Israel claimed to have launched a preemptive strike on Hezbollah sites in Lebanon before the attack, stating that there was no major damage in Israel.
Here are the key points from Nasrallah’s speech:
Hezbollah desires to avoid military escalation
There have been concerns since October 8 when Hezbollah and Israel began exchanging fire during the Gaza war about the potential for the conflict to escalate into a larger regional war involving Iran and the US.
Nasrallah’s recent actions indicate an attempt to prevent a strong Israeli response and restore deterrence.
Main target was an intelligence base
Nasrallah confirmed that Hezbollah’s primary target was the Glilot base north of Tel Aviv, which houses the Mossad and Unit 8200.
The attack was executed as planned, with Nasrallah disputing Israeli claims that it failed.
Attack delayed due to Gaza ceasefire talks
Nasrallah explained that the attack was postponed to allow time for Gaza ceasefire negotiations, among other reasons.
However, with delays and new conditions from Israel and the US, the attack proceeded as planned.
Clash of narratives
Nasrallah refuted Israeli claims of prior knowledge of the attack, emphasizing that the strike targeted military and intelligence, not civilians.
He challenged the narrative of a massive rocket attack from Lebanon, stating that Hezbollah deliberately limited the scope of the attack.
Avoidance of civilian targets
Nasrallah assured that civilian areas, including infrastructure like Ben Gurion Airport, were avoided in the attack.
He acknowledged the fear in Lebanon following recent events but reassured the country of the current situation.
