Ali Larijani, a top Iranian security official, is set to embark on a trip to both Iraq and Lebanon for the purpose of endorsing a dual-nation security agreement and to engage in conversations around Beirut’s initiative to disarm the Iran-supported group, Hezbollah. The plan to disarm Hezbollah is a decision that Iran vigorously dissents. On his trip, Larijani, will first be heading to Iraq on his schedule for Monday. Following this, he will proceed to Lebanon, where he will deliberate with the major Lebanese authorities and individuals of influence.
Prior to his journey to Lebanon, Larijani will be involved in the signing of a dual-nation security pact in Iraq. This security pact will strengthen ties between the two nations and open a new chapter in their relations. Then, his itinerary will take him to Lebanon. Here, he will have discussions with top-tier Lebanese officials to better understand their perspectives and plans for disarmament.
The decision by the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, has facing significant pushback from Tehran. This move has been vehemently denounced by Tehran and described as ‘a blatant and intolerable intrusion’ in Lebanon’s affairs. This discourse has set the tone and formed the basis for Larijani’s impending visit to Lebanon.
Iran’s historical and deep-rooted collaboration with the Lebanese government has covered a myriad of regional challenges. With a multitude of issues in the regional landscape, the talks will not only focus on the disarmament issue but also other regional concerns. While the conext of these talks will include various topics, Iran’s positions on matters pertaining to Lebanon have been consistently transparent and defined.
Iran’s unwavering stance is an endorsement and promotion of the unity of the Lebanese nation. The preservation of this unity, in all circumstances, is of the utmost importance to Iran. Equally, the sovereignty of Lebanon holds significant value for Iran. Tehran not only respects the country’s independence but also pledges to support its reinforcement.
Esmaeil Baqaei, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman, prior to Larijani’s departure, pointed out that the key objective of this strategic journey is to contribute to the sustenance of tranquility within the larger Middle East landscape. He affirmed that Iran holds enormous respect for Lebanon’s right to protect itself against any assertive actions led by the Zionist regime, i.e., Israel.
Baqaei further emphasized that self-defense would be an unachievable objective if Lebanon is stripped of its military prowess and armament. To this end, he suggested that the dismantling process threatens the country’s ability to protect itself, especially from threats presented by Israel.
Hezbollah is a formidable force within Lebanon, and prior to its conflict with Israel, it was perceived as a stronger military entity than the Lebanese military itself. The organization has built its reputation primarily on their resistance to Israel, which had a hold on southern Lebanon for close to two decades until the year 2000.
Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Iran’s top leader, on Saturday, characterized the disarmament plan as effectively submitting to the demands of the United States and Israel. He suggested that the initiative to strip Hezbollah of its weaponry was an indirect acceptance of the conditions put forth by these two nations.
In the aftermath of last year’s conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the latter has seen a diminution in its political and military power. This disarmament initiative is not just about disarmament, but also about mitigating pressures from the United States and anti-Hezbollah factions in Lebanon. Additionally, there are underlying concerns that Israel might intensify its attacks if Hezbollah continues to be armed.
As the chief of the Supreme National Security Council, Larijani, 68, is tasked with the responsibility to define Iran’s defense and security strategy. This body, under Larijani’s leadership, is pivotal in designating the nation’s security trajectory and its decisions are required to gain the approval of Iran’s highest authority, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Larijani’s appointment came in the aftermath of an intense 12-day conflict with Israel. This war began with Israel launching an unexpected assault on Iran around the middle of June, initiating an attack that spanned military, nuclear, and even residential areas.
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