BEIRUT, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Mahmoud Qomati, deputy head of Hezbollah's political council, said Tuesday that the group had "no option but to return to resistance" following what he described as continued Israeli aggression against Lebanon.
In a statement addressed to the Lebanese public, Qomati said Hezbollah had exercised restraint for months in hopes that diplomatic efforts by the Lebanese state would lead to an end to hostilities, a withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a halt to what he called daily violations.
"We said patience has limits," Qomati stated, adding that the group had complied with the ceasefire agreement and handed over its weapons south of the Litani River, but Israel continued its strikes while the government failed to secure gains related to territory, detainees, or reconstruction.
"If the enemy wants it to be an open war, then let it be an open war," Qomati said, warning that Hezbollah's recent response would not remain "symbolic" following what he described as Israel's latest escalation.
Also on Tuesday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged members of the Quintet Committee to intensify pressure on Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon, reaffirming that the Lebanese state alone holds the authority over decisions of war and peace.
The developments come amid rising tensions along the Lebanese-Israeli border, despite a U.S.- and French-brokered ceasefire that took effect in November 2024.
In recent days, Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas in southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs. Israeli authorities say the strikes are aimed at Hezbollah military infrastructure, while Hezbollah and Lebanese officials accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and targeting civilian areas. ■
