BREAKING: Qassem Demands Mutual Deal Warns Response to Violations

According to a report by Anadolu Agency on Saturday, April 18, 2026, Hezbollah has stated that any ceasefire arrangement with Israel must be reciprocal, rejecting the idea of a unilateral suspension of hostilities.

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem said that any truce would only be meaningful if it applies equally to all parties involved in the conflict.

“A ceasefire means a complete cessation of all hostilities,” Qassem said, adding that the group would respond to any violations of such an agreement.

His remarks come amid continuing tensions and sporadic cross-border exchanges along the Israel–Lebanon frontier, where hostilities have persisted despite repeated international calls for de-escalation.

Qassem reiterated that Hezbollah’s position requires clear, enforceable commitments from both sides. He warned that any breach of a ceasefire framework would be met with a response from the group.

He also stated that Hezbollah remains in a heightened state of readiness, reflecting the ongoing instability along the border region and the risk of further escalation.

International diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions have continued, though no formal ceasefire agreement has been finalized between the parties.

Regional observers describe the security environment as fragile, with both sides maintaining elevated military alert levels and signalling preparedness for potential escalation if conditions deteriorate.

Diplomatic communication channels remain open, but there is currently no confirmed timeline for a comprehensive settlement.

Authorities continue to closely monitor developments as efforts to establish a durable cessation of hostilities proceed amid sustained regional tension.

The situation remains fluid, with security and political dynamics continuing to evolve across the Israel–Lebanon border region as international stakeholders pursue stabilisation measures and encourage restraint from all involved actors.