In a rare public rebuke, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has criticized statements made by Iranian parliament's speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf as a 'blatant interference' in Lebanon's affairs. Ghalibaf recently expressed Iran's readiness to negotiate with France on a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon, referencing a UN resolution from 2006 that ended the Israel-Hezbollah war.
Prime Minister Mikati expressed Lebanon's surprise at Iran's position, stating that it constitutes an unacceptable attempt to impose guardianship over Lebanon. This rebuke comes in the wake of a visit by an Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, which included Ghalibaf. The delegation met with Mikati shortly after the assassination of Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israel.
The Iranian delegation's offer to mediate between Hezbollah and Israel has raised concerns in Lebanon, with Mikati emphasizing that Lebanon's sovereignty must be respected and that any negotiations should be conducted through appropriate channels. The 2006 UN resolution mentioned by Ghalibaf called for Hezbollah to withdraw from parts of southern Lebanon, a move that remains a sensitive issue in the region.
Iran's involvement in Lebanon's affairs has sparked debate and criticism, with many Lebanese officials echoing Mikati's sentiments regarding foreign interference. The delicate balance of power in the region, particularly between Hezbollah, Israel, and other stakeholders, adds complexity to any potential negotiations or ceasefire agreements.
As tensions simmer in the region, the Lebanese government is navigating a challenging diplomatic landscape, seeking to protect its sovereignty and interests while managing external pressures and influences. Mikati's strong response to Iran's statements underscores Lebanon's commitment to maintaining its independence and autonomy in the face of regional dynamics and power struggles.
