“If the Lebanese government continues to take refuge under Hezbollah’s wing, a fire will burn the ashes of Lebanon”
Israel Katz
Israeli Defense Minister
Israeli Defense Minister threatens to burn Hezbollah and all of Lebanon
Ten days after the announcement of a ceasefire that all parties accuse each other of breaking, tension in Lebanon escalated on Monday, April 27, after the fiery statements by the Israeli Defense Minister.
In a statement released by Israel Katz’s office and reported by L’Orient-Le Jour, the minister threatened Hezbollah leader Na’im Kassem and the Lebanese government: “Na’im Kassem is playing with fire, and this fire will burn Hezbollah and the whole of Lebanon. […] If the Lebanese government continues to shelter under the wing of the terrorist organization Hezbollah, a fire will erupt and burn the ashes of Lebanon,” referring to the national emblem of the country.
These words are reminiscent of those used by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 7 on his Truth Social network when he wrote, referring to Iran, “an entire civilization [will] die tonight, never to rise again.” “The entire country could be destroyed in a single night,” continued the White House tenant during a press conference.
Deadly Strikes
Entering into force on April 17 after six weeks of war, the ceasefire, announced and unilaterally extended by the American president, offers no respite for the Lebanese, who are facing the numerous strikes carried out by the Israeli army on the country. According to Lebanese authorities, Israel Defense Forces strikes on Sunday, April 26, resulted in 14 deaths – including two women and two children – the highest daily toll since the ceasefire came into effect.
“Hezbollah’s violations effectively dismantle the ceasefire,” stated Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Meanwhile, the armed Shiite organization asserted that its fighters targeted the Israeli army in “legitimate response” to ceasefire violations by Israel and attacks on villages in southern Lebanon.
