Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed Iran’s right to respond to recent Israeli airstrikes while welcoming a ceasefire in Lebanon mediated by the US and France. The effects of this ceasefire on tensions between Israel and Iran will depend on Israel’s actions. Iranian officials maintain that Hezbollah remains strong despite Israeli operations against its leadership.
In recent remarks during his visit to Lisbon, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s right to respond to Israeli airstrikes conducted last month while also expressing favorable sentiments regarding the newly initiated ceasefire in Lebanon. This ceasefire, which took effect on Wednesday, was achieved through negotiations facilitated by the United States and France, and is aimed at ending hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran. Araghchi pointed out that whether this ceasefire could lead to decreased tensions hinges on Israel’s actions, stating, “It depends on the behavior of Israel.” He reiterated that Iran maintains its right to retaliate against Israeli aggression but is also attentive to ongoing regional changes. Meanwhile, Ali Larijani, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, indicated that preparations for a response to Israeli actions are underway. Araghchi further noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claims of having severely weakened Hezbollah are unsubstantiated, asserting that the group has successfully maintained its strength and functionality despite Israeli strikes against its leaders since January. He remarked, “Every time they (Hezbollah) lose their leaders or their commanders, they become bigger in both numbers and their strength.” These sentiments align with statements made by a senior Hezbollah official, who asserted that the group would emerge from the conflict bolstered and more numerous.
The backdrop of this discussion involves a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, particularly surrounding Iran and Israel’s adversarial relationship. In recent months, Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting Iranian positions, escalating concerns of a wider conflict in the region. The ceasefire in Lebanon represents a notable development, as it stems from a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, contributing to both regional security concerns and diplomatic negotiations involving major powers such as the US and France. Iranian response to Israeli actions continues to be a focal point of international discourse on Middle Eastern stability, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Syria and other regional hotspots.
In summary, Iranian officials have made it clear that while they reserve the right to react to Israeli military actions, they also recognize the importance of developments such as the ceasefire in Lebanon. The uncertain nature of future tensions between Israel and Iran appears contingent upon Israel’s subsequent behavior. Additionally, Hezbollah’s resilience amidst Israeli incursions suggests that the current dynamics may evolve, complicating the already intricate geopolitical landscape of the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
