Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem announced support for Lebanon's diplomatic efforts to end Israeli attacks, while voicing strong criticism of the government's decision to include a civilian representative in recent talks with Israel. In a televised address, Qassem emphasized backing for the state's pursuit of diplomacy to implement a ceasefire deal but warned against what he called 'missteps' by Lebanese authorities, including moves to disarm Hezbollah. He accused Israel and the United States of pressuring Lebanon to negotiate 'under fire' and vowed continued resistance, stating that his group would defend itself and not surrender. Qassem also rejected foreign interference in Lebanon's domestic affairs and insisted that the new talks were not a step toward broader peace negotiations.