In a significant diplomatic move, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has stated that any potential agreement between Iran and the United States must encompass a comprehensive end to hostilities across all fronts, with a particular emphasis on establishing a ceasefire in Lebanon.
During a phone conversation on Monday, June 1, with his Lebanese counterpart Nabih Berri, Qalibaf underscored the "unbreakable" bond between Iran and Lebanon. He praised the roles of Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, describing their efforts as a defense of both their motherland and the wider Muslim world. Qalibaf reaffirmed Iran's commitment to securing a lasting ceasefire throughout Lebanon, including its southern regions.
The diplomatic outreach comes amid heightened military tensions. Iran's main military command, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, issued a stern warning on Monday against Israeli strikes on the Lebanese capital, Beirut, and the southern district of Dahieh. Furthermore, the command advised residents in northern Israel and settlers in the occupied Palestinian territories to evacuate should Israeli attacks persist.
Adding to the diplomatic friction, the Iranian Foreign Ministry released a statement on Monday highlighting what it termed "flagrant violations" of an April ceasefire by the United States and Israel. The ministry alleged that the U.S. has continued attacks against Iranian shipping, while Israel has repeatedly violated the truce and infringed upon Lebanon's national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on Monday that they had ordered military strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs. These actions were framed as a reaction to alleged "violations" of the Lebanese ceasefire by Hezbollah, specifically attacks targeting northern Israeli cities.
However, the immediate escalation was reportedly stalled. According to Israel's state-owned Kan TV News, the Israeli cabinet decided to postpone the planned attacks following intervention from the United States, highlighting the complex web of international mediation currently shaping the region's stability.
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Iran's parliament speaker: Deal must include Lebanon ceasefire
cgtn.com
