Hezbollah slams Israel talks as ‘humiliation’

Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem has strongly criticized direct negotiations between Lebanon

Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem has strongly criticized direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, describing the dialogue as a series of “concessions” that have failed to serve Lebanon’s national interests.

Speaking during an Arbaeen commemoration in the Lebanese city of Baalbek, Qassem said the ongoing negotiations had brought “humiliation and repeated compromises” rather than meaningful progress. He urged Lebanese leaders to avoid external pressure and instead pursue policies that safeguard the country’s sovereignty.

The Hezbollah chief also criticized President Joseph Aoun, claiming the president had failed to play a neutral and unifying role during the current political situation. Qassem argued that Lebanon’s leadership should engage in dialogue with domestic political forces rather than making concessions to achieve foreign policy objectives.

He further claimed that Israeli attacks were halted only after a memorandum linked to efforts between Iran and the United States helped reduce tensions. According to Qassem, Lebanon’s political leadership would not achieve lasting stability by following policies influenced by outside powers.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran remains committed to defending its territorial integrity but has no intention of expanding the ongoing conflict beyond its borders.

Addressing a gathering in Tehran, Pezeshkian said Iran would continue protecting its national security while focusing on strengthening internal unity. He stressed that a united society would leave no opportunity for foreign interference or attempts to create divisions within the country.

The latest statements come as uncertainty continues over possible diplomatic contacts between Iran and the United States. US President Donald Trump recently said discussions with Tehran were underway and described them as a final opportunity to reach an agreement. However, Iranian officials denied that any negotiations were currently taking place or that formal meetings had been scheduled.

The conflicting statements have added to uncertainty over future diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions.

The regional situation has also affected global energy markets. Saudi energy giant Aramco reported a sharp rise in second-quarter earnings, saying higher oil prices and supply disruptions linked to the regional conflict significantly boosted its financial performance. The company said it maintained production despite challenging conditions across the region.