In an interview with Lebanon’s Al Mayadeen TV network, Araghchi said Iran views developments in Lebanon as closely linked to the broader conflict involving Iran, the United States, and the Israeli regime. He stressed that any agreement aimed at ending the war must include a halt to fighting on all fronts, particularly in Lebanon.
According to Araghchi, Lebanon has paid a significant price during the conflict and cannot be separated from discussions about a ceasefire. He said Iran has consistently insisted that any cessation of hostilities must apply both to Iran and to regional fronts, including Lebanon.
The minister also said that a recent planned large-scale Israeli strike on Beirut was prevented through a combination of resistance capabilities, Iranian military readiness, diplomatic efforts, and pressure from regional countries. He said Tehran warned Washington that an attack on Beirut would effectively end the ceasefire and could trigger a response from the Iranian Armed Forces.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran remains prepared to react to any future violations of the ceasefire. At the same time, he said communication channels with the United States remain open, although no major progress has been achieved in recent days. He said both sides are reviewing existing frameworks, and if conditions are favorable, talks could resume based on Iran’s national interests, the rights of its people, and efforts to end the conflict in Iran and Lebanon.
Discussing the possibility of renewed conflict, Araghchi argued that recent events demonstrated Iran’s military capabilities and national cohesion. He said Western assumptions about Iranian weakness had proven incorrect and maintained that Iran has the capacity to continue defending itself if necessary. However, he reiterated that Tehran does not seek war and wants a dignified peace.
The foreign minister rejected claims that Iran had linked Lebanon’s situation to its own negotiations, arguing that the Israeli regime had created that connection by expanding military assaults to Lebanon. He said the war’s conclusion must include an end to fighting and occupation in Lebanese territory.
Araghchi also praised Hezbollah’s resilience following the killing of its leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and expressed confidence in the current Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem.
He said Iran seeks respectful relations with Lebanon and that its embassy operates within the framework of official diplomatic ties.
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