Iran warns against allowing Netanyahu to harm diplomatic efforts

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed concerns over the potential repercussions of continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon, which have resulted in hundreds of deaths since the regional ceasefire came into effect. On Thursday, Araghchi stated that it would be “unwise” for the US to allow Israel to jeopardize the truce by continuing its military operations in Lebanon.

Araghchi’s comments echo those made by US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday, who warned against Iranian involvement in preventing the ceasefire from falling apart over Lebanon. Araghchi suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may have an ulterior motive for continuing the fighting, stating that a region-wide ceasefire would hasten his trial.

Araghchi also addressed the US directly, saying that if they choose to allow Israel to continue its attacks, it would be “unwise” but ultimately their decision. He added that Iran is prepared for any outcome and will take necessary actions to protect the truce.

The disagreement over whether the ceasefire applies to Lebanon has become a major point of contention since its announcement on Tuesday. Iranian officials have hinted at potential military responses or blocking the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the ceasefire’s applicability to Lebanon. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that he will scale back operations in Lebanon, following a conversation with US President Trump.

The conflict in Lebanon has escalated into an all-out war since early March, following Hezbollah’s rocket fire in response to Israeli strikes and the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on February 28. Israel has launched near-daily attacks in Lebanon since November 2024, including widespread attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Source: Al Jazeera