Hezbollah’s acting leader, Naim Qassem, announced a shift in the group's strategy during the ongoing conflict with Israel, stating that the goal is now to make Israel "feel pain." Although he did not provide extensive details on the new "calculation," Qassem emphasized Hezbollah’s right to strike anywhere in Israel, citing its widespread attacks on Lebanon. 

"We have entered a phase of inflicting pain on the enemy," Qassem said in a televised speech, noting that Hezbollah's operations now extend deeper into Israel, with missiles reaching as far as Haifa and beyond.

"Since the enemy has targeted all of Lebanon, we have the right, from a defensive position, to strike any point within the Israeli entity, and we will choose the target we deem appropriate."

However, Qassem called for an immediate ceasefire as the only viable solution to end the hostilities, stating that Israel must stop its attacks on both Lebanon and Gaza.

"I'm telling the Israelis, the solution is to stop firing," he said, warning that the more than two million Israelis in northern Israel would remain under constant threat until a ceasefire is achieved.

"After a ceasefire, the [Israeli] settlers can return to the north," he added.

Qassem stressed that Hezbollah’s resilience and commitment to its cause remain unshaken despite Israeli strikes.

"The resistance will never be defeated because they are the ones who own the land. They will fight and die in dignity. Victory will come with patience."

In a broader context, Qassem reiterated Hezbollah’s view that Lebanon's fate is intertwined with that of Palestine and the wider region. He blamed the United States for enabling Israel’s dominance and control, stating, "Without America, Israel would not have been able to exert the level of control it currently holds."

"We are facing the danger of a new Middle East," Qassem cautioned, underscoring Hezbollah’s resistance as both "legitimate and defensive." He emphasized the dual objectives of rejecting Israeli occupation and liberating the land, describing the current conflict as part of a broader Palestinian struggle supported by Iran and Hezbollah.

Qassem rejected the idea that Hezbollah’s actions were causing harm to Lebanon, arguing instead that Israel’s aggression was the true source of devastation. He called for the Lebanese people to stand united behind the resistance to prevent Israel from achieving its objectives.

"The path to reclaiming the land and stopping aggression lies in the steadfastness of the resistance and the people's support around it," he said.

The Hezbollah leader also pointed to the group's strengthened organizational structure in the face of Israeli attacks.

"The party remains strong despite the heavy blows. We have restored our organizational capacities, put alternatives in place, and no leadership post remains vacant. The battlefield speaks for itself."

In closing, Qassem delivered three key messages. To the fighters, he said, "You are the symbol of honor, dignity, and hope. Signs of victory are clear. Fight them, and God will punish them by your hands."

He also addressed the Lebanese people, urging them to remain united against Israeli aggression: "We are in one homeland, and we have worked to build this country. Israel is the one disrupting our lives with its ongoing aggression. Your humanitarian and national unity strengthens our bond and helps us build our nation."

Lastly, he spoke to the displaced communities, expressing Hezbollah’s solidarity with them.

"We appreciate your sacrifices and those of your children on the battlefield. You, in your displacement, are the most honorable and noble of people. We are with you on the same journey and united in the same cause."