1000’s of Hezbollah supporters show in Beirutrevealed at 19:16 BST
Hugo Bachega
Center East correspondent in Beirut
BBC’s Hugo Bachega sees 1000’s of Hezbollah supporters demonstrating in Beirut
Outdoors the Lebanese prime minister’s workplace in central Beirut, Hezbollah supporters gathered to protest towards the prospect of direct talks with Israel, a suggestion by the Lebanese authorities to attempt to put an finish to the battle and pave the best way for, many hope, lasting peace.
The group chanted revolutionary slogans, carried Hezbollah’s yellow flag, the flag of Iran – the group’s principal supporter – and photos of the late Hezbollah chief, Hassan Nasrallah.
Sara, who was waving a Lebanese flag, instructed me: “I am proud to be right here as a result of Hezbollah, it is the one resistance towards these evil ones, this [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu, one who’s stealing our nation, killing our individuals.”
Followers see Hezbollah, who they name “the resistance”, as the one power in a position to defend them towards Israel, which they are saying is intent on seizing Lebanese land.
Israel says Hezbollah is a menace and that it goals to create a so-called safety buffer zone alongside the border to guard its northern communities. In Lebanon, there are fears that this might result in an occupation of elements of the nation.
Opponents blame Hezbollah for dragging Lebanon into conflicts, need the group to be disarmed, and assist negotiating with Israel. Lebanon has demanded a ceasefire earlier than any talks, however Israel says the battle will proceed.
