Hezbollah deputy leader Naim Qassem said in comments broadcast on Tuesday that his movement supports efforts to reach a ceasefire for Lebanon, but for the first time omitted any mention of a Gaza truce deal as a pre-condition to halting the group's fire on Israel.

Qassem said Hezbollah supported efforts by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, to secure a halt to the fighting, which has escalated in recent weeks with Israeli ground incursions and the killing of some of Hezbollah's top leaders, including Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

"We support the political activity being led by Berri under the title of a ceasefire," Qassem said in a 30-minute televised address.

"In any case, after the issue of a ceasefire takes shape, and once diplomacy can achieve it, all of the other details can be discussed and decisions can be taken," he said. "If the enemy (Israel) continues its war, then the battlefield will decide."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallah-netanyahu-agreed-to-ceasefire-before-hezbollah-chiefs-death-lebanese-ministers-shocking-claim-764134">Also read:&nbsp;Nasrallah, Netanyahu agreed to ceasefire before Hezbollah chief's death? Lebanese minister's SHOCKING claim</a>

Hezbollah began launching missiles at Israel a year ago in support of its ally Hamas, which is at war with Israel following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

Hezbollah's top leaders have repeatedly stated over the last year that the group will not stop its fire until a Gaza ceasefire is reached, but Qassem's address appeared to mark a departure from that policy.

Israeli strikes have hit the group's stronghold in Beirut's southern suburbs on a nightly basis, and ground incursions expanded on Tuesday to additional parts of Lebanon's southern border with Israel.

Watch |&nbsp;Francophone Nations Call for 'Immediate' Ceasefire in Lebanon

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Qassem simultaneously struck a defiant tone, saying the group's capabilities were intact, that it had increased its rocket fire on Israel, and that it was itching for "clashes" with Israeli troops in Lebanon.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Hezbollah deputy leader Naim Qassem said in comments broadcast on Tuesday that his movement supports efforts to reach a ceasefire for Lebanon, but for the first time omitted any mention of a Gaza truce deal as a pre-condition to halting the group's fire on Israel.

Hezbollah deputy leader Naim Qassem said in comments broadcast on Tuesday that his movement supports efforts to reach a ceasefire for Lebanon, but for the first time omitted any mention of a Gaza truce deal as a pre-condition to halting the group's fire on Israel. Qassem said Hezbollah supported efforts by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, to secure a halt to the fighting, which has escalated in recent weeks with Israeli ground incursions and the killing of some of Hezbollah's top leaders, including Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. "We support the political activity being led by Berri under the title of a ceasefire," Qassem said in a 30-minute televised address. "In any case, after the issue of a ceasefire takes shape, and once diplomacy can achieve it, all of the other details can be discussed and decisions can be taken," he said. "If the enemy (Israel) continues its war, then the battlefield will decide." Also read: Nasrallah, Netanyahu agreed to ceasefire before Hezbollah chief's death? Lebanese minister's SHOCKING claim Hezbollah began launching missiles at Israel a year ago in support of its ally Hamas, which is at war with Israel following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Hezbollah's top leaders have repeatedly stated over the last year that the group will not stop its fire until a Gaza ceasefire is reached, but Qassem's address appeared to mark a departure from that policy. Israeli strikes have hit the group's stronghold in Beirut's southern suburbs on a nightly basis, and ground incursions expanded on Tuesday to additional parts of Lebanon's southern border with Israel. Watch | Francophone Nations Call for 'Immediate' Ceasefire in Lebanon × Qassem simultaneously struck a defiant tone, saying the group's capabilities were intact, that it had increased its rocket fire on Israel, and that it was itching for "clashes" with Israeli troops in Lebanon. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hezbollah deputy leader supports Lebanon ceasefire efforts; omits mention of Gaza truce as precondition

A year after the Gaza war, the Israeli army suffered its heaviest casualties in the war in half a century. Over 726 Israeli soldiers have died, and more than 4,500 have been wounded, marking Israel's highest military casualty count since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. So, what does this say about the Israel Defense Forces? Once considered nearly invincible. Tune into #Gravitas at 9 pm to find out more.

Gravitas: Israel’s Hidden Truth Revealed | IDF Suffers Worst Casualties in 50 Years

Israel launched several attacks on Beirut in its ongoing conflict with the Hezbollah. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah Fighting Intensifies: Fresh Israeli Strikes Hit South Beirut

According to reports, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is alive and has secretly established contact with Qatar. Sinwar is the mastermind of Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel. Watch for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas' Yahya Sinwar Said to Have Renewed Contacts With Mediators

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas' Yahya Sinwar, Presumed to Have Been Killed, Is Alive, Claims Report

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar Said to Have Renewed Contact With Qatar, Claims Report

Israeli security authorities said that during operations in Gaza, the IDF approached Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, and some reports indicate that he surrounded himself with hostages at several points.

Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Alive In Gaza, Renews Contact with Qatari Mediators: Reports

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) warned that they are planning a "serious and significant" response to Iran's ballistic missile attack, according to reports.

How Will Israel Respond To Iran's Missile Attack?

After a year of conflict, two-thirds of Gaza’s buildings have been damaged or destroyed, leaving behind 42 million tonnes of rubble and a mountain of health risks.

Israel-Hamas War: Satellite Images Show How Gaza Was Reduced To Rubble In A Year

Israel-Hamas War: One Year of Unrelenting Destruction in Gaza

As Israel marks one year since the October 7 attack, citizens in Tel Aviv held a minute of silence to remember those who were killed in the massacre last year. Watch the visuals.

Gravitas: Citizens Hold a Moment of Silence on October 7 Attack Anniversary in Tel Aviv

Israelis marked the first anniversary of the devastating Hamas attack that triggered a war that has sparked protests worldwide and risks igniting a far wider conflict in West Asia.

Israel-Hamas War: One Year After October 7, Gazans Long for Return to Normalcy

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Unrecognizable After One Year Of War

For long, Israel has been seen as an oasis of stability in a volatile region. But the war in Gaza has come as a black swan event for Israel, which was holding up amid the global economic downturn. Thousands have lost their lives, properties and humans have been reduced to rubble, and the economy has taken a big hit.

Israel's Economy Fallout From Widening War

Israel-Hamas War: Israel Marks One Year Since October 7 Hamas Attacks

Israel-Hamas War: Israel Marks First Anniversary of October 7 Hamas Attack

On October 7, Israel observed the anniversary of the tragic events with memorials and protests as tensions in the region remain high. While the nation reflects on the impact of past attacks, military operations continue in both Gaza and Lebanon, escalating concerns about regional stability. The day serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing conflict and its far-reaching consequences for the affected communities.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel Commemorates Oct 7 With Memorials and Protests

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has significantly disrupted international travel and trade forcing airlines to reevaluate flight routes amid tensions especially following Iran's missile attack on Israel.

West-Asia Tensions: War Disrupts Travel, Boosts Taliban Revenue

Gaza, a densely populated coastal enclave, has faced immense challenges, especially over the past year. The ongoing conflict and blockade have led to a humanitarian crisis, with limited access to essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies. WION brings you rare moments of hope and humanity from the epicenter of war.

Israel-Hamas War: Ray of Hope Amid a Trail of Destruction and Devastation in Gaza

It's been a year to the Israel-Hamas War. A densely populated coastal enclave Gaza has faced immense challenges, especially over the past year. The ongoing conflict and blockade have led to a humanitarian crisis, with limited access to essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Hails Oct 7 Attack On Anniversary

On the anniversary of the October 7 attack, Hamas has publicly praised the operation as "glorious." The statement comes amidst ongoing tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict, marking a year since the assault, which resulted in significant casualties and escalated violence in the region. Hamas’s remarks highlight its commitment to its militant agenda and reflect the group's efforts to galvanize support among its followers and the Palestinian populace during a period of heightened conflict.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Praises 'Glorious' Oct 7 Attack On Anniversary

Israel-Hamas War: Rare Moments of Hope and Humanity

Gaza, a densely populated coastal enclave, has faced immense challenges, especially over the past year. The ongoing conflict and blockade have led to a humanitarian crisis, with limited access to essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies.

Israel-Hamas War: One Year of Death, Destruction and Desperation Across Gaza

Israel-Hamas War: How Israel Starved & Shattered Gazans

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation.&nbsp;

The Qatari officials involved in the negotiations said they believed that Sinwar had surrounded himself with the hostages and ceased communication via phones due to the&nbsp;recent spate of eliminations.&nbsp;

"Sinwar is currently not communicating with us. He has disappeared for us too and has not made contact," the officials were cited as saying by the Israeli news outlet.&nbsp;

The Qatari officials also claimed that Israel's elimination of Hamas leadership had made a hostage-ceasefire deal more challenging.

"Israel adopted a policy of eliminations that worsened the deal," the officials reportedly said, adding, "In the past, there was [Hamas's political bureau chief Ismail] Haniyeh, and he was eliminated. Now there is Khaled Mashaal, and he is much more difficult, Haniyeh."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-nasrallahs-death-a-heavy-blow-to-hezbollah-763038" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Nasrallah's Death a Heavy Blow To Hezbollah</a>

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<h2>Israel avoids eliminating Sinwar</h2>

Reports also claimed that Israeli security agencies had the opportunity to eliminate Sinwar but decided against it, fearing for the lives of the hostages who are being used as human shields by the Hamas chief.&nbsp;

The report comes in the backdrop of reports claiming that Tel Aviv was investigating the possibility of Sinwar being dead as he was incommunicado for a relatively long time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-evading-israelis-by-dressing-as-woman-to-hide-in-plain-sight-report-754530">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report</a>

Notably, Sinwar succeeded&nbsp;Ismail Haniyeh as Hamas chief after the latter was assassinated in Iran. Haniyeh was allegedly neutralised by Israel using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at&nbsp;in Tehran.&nbsp;

Alongside now-killed Mohammed Deif, the head of&nbsp;Qassam Brigades, Sinwar planned the October 7 attacks, whose foundations were set in place after IDF carried out a raid on Al Aqsa mosque in May 2021.&nbsp;

Tel Aviv has reiterated that Sinwar's death might be the final nail in the coffin for Hamas which has faced significant losses in its top hierarchy in the recent weeks.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Israel-Hamas war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation.

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation. The Qatari officials involved in the negotiations said they believed that Sinwar had surrounded himself with the hostages and ceased communication via phones due to the recent spate of eliminations. "Sinwar is currently not communicating with us. He has disappeared for us too and has not made contact," the officials were cited as saying by the Israeli news outlet. The Qatari officials also claimed that Israel's elimination of Hamas leadership had made a hostage-ceasefire deal more challenging. "Israel adopted a policy of eliminations that worsened the deal," the officials reportedly said, adding, "In the past, there was [Hamas's political bureau chief Ismail] Haniyeh, and he was eliminated. Now there is Khaled Mashaal, and he is much more difficult, Haniyeh." Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Nasrallah's Death a Heavy Blow To Hezbollah Israel avoids eliminating Sinwar Reports also claimed that Israeli security agencies had the opportunity to eliminate Sinwar but decided against it, fearing for the lives of the hostages who are being used as human shields by the Hamas chief. The report comes in the backdrop of reports claiming that Tel Aviv was investigating the possibility of Sinwar being dead as he was incommunicado for a relatively long time. Also read | Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report Notably, Sinwar succeeded Ismail Haniyeh as Hamas chief after the latter was assassinated in Iran. Haniyeh was allegedly neutralised by Israel using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at in Tehran. Alongside now-killed Mohammed Deif, the head of Qassam Brigades, Sinwar planned the October 7 attacks, whose foundations were set in place after IDF carried out a raid on Al Aqsa mosque in May 2021. Tel Aviv has reiterated that Sinwar's death might be the final nail in the coffin for Hamas which has faced significant losses in its top hierarchy in the recent weeks. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Israel-Hamas war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators: Report

Thousands of protesters poured into the streets on Saturday in major cities around the world to demand an end to the ongoing bloodshed and violence in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas War: Anniversary of Gaza War Draws Thousands of Protesters Around the World

Israel President Isaac Herzog on Saturday (Oct 5) said that the wounds from the October 7 Hamas attack 'cannot fully heal', stressing that the hostages are still executed and dying in captivity.&nbsp;

Herzog made a statement, ahead of marking one year of Hamas'&nbsp;October 7 attack.&nbsp;

"Our wounds still cannot fully heal because they are ongoing. Because hostages are still being tortured, executed, and dying in captivity," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran 'ongoing threat to Israel'</h2>

Israeli president further said that Iran remains an "ongoing threat" to Israel, adding that Tehran&nbsp;and its proxies are blinded by hatred.&nbsp;

"In many senses, we are still living the aftermath of October 7... It is in the ongoing threat to the Jewish State by Iran and its terror proxies, who are blinded by hatred and bent on the destruction of our one and only Jewish nation-state," Herzog said.&nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Hezbollah said it fired rockets at a defence company in northern Israel.&nbsp;

<a href="Israel likely to launch symbolic attack on Iran nuclear-related facilities, says former PM Ehud Barak">Also read:&nbsp;Israel likely to launch symbolic attack on Iran nuclear-related facilities, says former PM Ehud Barak</a>

Hezbollah said in a statement that it launched "a rocket salvo" towards a "military industries company" east of Acre.

<h2>Israel's army chief vows to continue striking Hezbollah</h2>

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lt&nbsp;Gen&nbsp;Herzi Halevi said that Israel must continue to strike the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon without "relief".&nbsp;

“We must continue exerting pressure on Hezbollah and creating additional and lasting damage to the enemy. Without relief and without allowing a respite for the organization,” he said.&nbsp;

<h2>France halts arms deliveries to Israel&nbsp;</h2>

French President Emmanuel Macron urged on Saturday to halt arms deliveries to Israel, saying that the priority is to return to a 'political situation'.&nbsp;

"I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza," Macron told broadcaster France Inter.

"France is not delivering any," the French PM&nbsp;added during the interview recorded early this week.

<h2>Israel preparing to use 'great force' against Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

Israel issued a warning to thousands of displaced Palestinians sheltering in central Gaza and said that its military is preparing to use "great force" against Hamas in the area.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: Israel PM Netanyahu Says, 'Iran Has Made A Big Mistake &amp; Will Pay For It'

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The call for evacuation signals another possible humanitarian crisis with a new wave of mass displacement as Israel's war approaches its one-year mark.&nbsp;

<h2>Thousands join anti-Israel march in UK&nbsp;</h2>

Ahead of marking a year of the Hamas'&nbsp;October 7 attack on Israel, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters march through central London.&nbsp;The protesters called&nbsp;on&nbsp;Israel to halt its military operations&nbsp;in Gaza against Hamas and in Lebanon against Hezbollah.&nbsp;

The protesters began marching from Russell Square to Downing Street, demanding an end to the conflict.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel President Isaac Herzog on Saturday (Oct 5) said that the wounds from the October 7 Hamas attack 'cannot fully heal', stressing that the hostages are still executed and dying in captivity.

Israel President Isaac Herzog on Saturday (Oct 5) said that the wounds from the October 7 Hamas attack 'cannot fully heal', stressing that the hostages are still executed and dying in captivity. Herzog made a statement, ahead of marking one year of Hamas' October 7 attack. "Our wounds still cannot fully heal because they are ongoing. Because hostages are still being tortured, executed, and dying in captivity," he said. Iran 'ongoing threat to Israel' Israeli president further said that Iran remains an "ongoing threat" to Israel, adding that Tehran and its proxies are blinded by hatred. "In many senses, we are still living the aftermath of October 7... It is in the ongoing threat to the Jewish State by Iran and its terror proxies, who are blinded by hatred and bent on the destruction of our one and only Jewish nation-state," Herzog said. Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Hezbollah said it fired rockets at a defence company in northern Israel. Also read: Israel likely to launch symbolic attack on Iran nuclear-related facilities, says former PM Ehud Barak Hezbollah said in a statement that it launched "a rocket salvo" towards a "military industries company" east of Acre. Israel's army chief vows to continue striking Hezbollah Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lt Gen Herzi Halevi said that Israel must continue to strike the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon without "relief". “We must continue exerting pressure on Hezbollah and creating additional and lasting damage to the enemy. Without relief and without allowing a respite for the organization,” he said. France halts arms deliveries to Israel French President Emmanuel Macron urged on Saturday to halt arms deliveries to Israel, saying that the priority is to return to a 'political situation'. "I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza," Macron told broadcaster France Inter. "France is not delivering any," the French PM added during the interview recorded early this week. Israel preparing to use 'great force' against Hamas Israel issued a warning to thousands of displaced Palestinians sheltering in central Gaza and said that its military is preparing to use "great force" against Hamas in the area. Watch | Iran-Israel War: Israel PM Netanyahu Says, 'Iran Has Made A Big Mistake & Will Pay For It' × The call for evacuation signals another possible humanitarian crisis with a new wave of mass displacement as Israel's war approaches its one-year mark. Thousands join anti-Israel march in UK Ahead of marking a year of the Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters march through central London. The protesters called on Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza against Hamas and in Lebanon against Hezbollah. The protesters began marching from Russell Square to Downing Street, demanding an end to the conflict. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's president labels Iran an 'ongoing threat'; IDF chief vows to hit Hezbollah 'without relief'

Israeli airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs in Lebanon have kept rescue workers from searching the site of another attack suspected to have killed Hezbollah's potential next leader Hashem Safieddine, reported Reuters citing three Lebanese security sources, on Saturday (Oct 5).

Decoding Hezbollah's Political Functions

How Does Hezbollah Function And What Arsenal Does It Have?

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war."

The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government&nbsp;is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701.&nbsp;

Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah."&nbsp;Full interview:

WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two&nbsp;million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda.

WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel.

WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war.

WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallahs-presumed-successor-safieddine-unreachable-since-fridays-israeli-strike-on-bunker-report-764777">Also read:&nbsp;Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report</a>

WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, &nbsp;they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop.

WION: And Indians in the UN?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in &nbsp;UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India.&nbsp;

WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it?

Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate &nbsp;Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes

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WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it.

Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there.

WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government.&nbsp;

WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party.&nbsp;

WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance.&nbsp;

WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah.

WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this.

WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind.

WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow.

WION: What next for Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land.

WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government.

WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do.

WION: What about the Palestinian cause?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution.

WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches?

Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region. Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war." The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701. Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah." Full interview: WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda. WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation? Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel. WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing? Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war. WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages? Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region. Also read: Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them? Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop. WION: And Indians in the UN? Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India. WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it? Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes × WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it. Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there. WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries? Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government. WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party. WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance. WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah. WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack? Dr Rabie Narsh: First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this. WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind. WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow. WION: What next for Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land. WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government. WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do. WION: What about the Palestinian cause? Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution. WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches? Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon calls on India to help de-escalate West Asia tensions: Ambassador Narsh

At least 29 Palestinians have been killed and dozens wounded in an Israeli air strike on a camp for displaced people outside a school in southern Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Bombardment Kills 29 People in Gaza

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