Naim Qassem has declared that Israel has “no option” but to withdraw completely from all occupied Lebanese territory, describing recent diplomatic developments involving the United States and Iran as a setback for both Washington and Israel.

Speaking in a televised address on Friday during Ashura, one of the most significant observances for Shia Muslims, Qassem addressed tens of thousands of Hezbollah supporters gathered in Beirut’s southern suburbs. Waving Hezbollah and Iranian flags, the crowd marked the group's largest public gathering since the latest regional escalation began.

“Israel has no option but to withdraw completely from every inch of our Lebanese land,” Qassem said. “Israel must leave unconditionally.”

The conflict intensified after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks following strikes that killed senior Iranian officials. Israel's subsequent military operations have caused widespread destruction, with Lebanese authorities reporting more than 4,200 deaths since the fighting escalated.

Qassem's remarks came as diplomatic efforts continued on several fronts. Lebanese and Israeli officials are engaged in talks in Washington under U.S. mediation, with both sides holding a fifth round of negotiations despite the collapse of an earlier ceasefire announced on April 17. A new truce proposal has also been linked to broader U.S.-Iran discussions, although Lebanon has maintained that its border negotiations should remain separate from regional talks.

Reaffirming Hezbollah's position, Qassem said the group would reject any agreement involving normalization with Israel, an end to the state of hostility, or concessions benefiting Israel. He also praised Iran for its continued support, claiming that the current diplomatic climate reflected an admission of failure by both the United States and Israel.

The humanitarian toll continues to mount, with Lebanese officials reporting six more deaths from Israeli airstrikes this week. Among those attending the Ashura gathering was 48-year-old Abeer Ayash, who said she had lost her home and several relatives during the conflict. Despite her personal losses, she expressed unwavering support for Hezbollah, saying the movement's fighters were making sacrifices for Lebanon and that she remained committed to their cause.