Iran has expressed its backing for any decision made by Lebanon in ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire with Israel, a senior Iranian official stated on Friday. This signals Tehran’s desire to end a conflict that has severely impacted its Lebanese ally, Hezbollah.
Escalating Violence in Southern Beirut
Israeli airstrikes have relentlessly targeted Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut for four consecutive days. On Friday, five buildings in Dahiyeh were flattened, including one near Tayouneh, one of Beirut’s busiest junctions. Video footage captured the devastation as a structure crumbled into debris, with dust spreading over the city’s main park, Horsh Beirut.
The Israeli military claimed the strikes targeted Hezbollah munitions depots, command centers, and related infrastructure. Warning messages were issued on social media before the attacks.
U.S.-Led Ceasefire Proposal
Diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire gained momentum this week. The U.S. ambassador to Lebanon presented a draft proposal to Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who is supported by Hezbollah to represent Lebanese interests in negotiations.
Iranian official Ali Larijani, during a press conference in Beirut, denied undermining U.S. initiatives. “We support Lebanon’s decisions. The real disruptors are Netanyahu and his government,” he said, referencing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Iran’s Historical Ties with Hezbollah
Hezbollah, established by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in 1982, has long been supported by Tehran through funding and arms supplies. While Israel has claimed significant military victories against the group, including the killing of Hezbollah’s leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, rocket attacks and ground battles continue.
The Role of U.N. Resolution 1701
World powers emphasize that any ceasefire must adhere to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. The resolution requires Hezbollah to relocate its weapons and fighters north of the Litani River. Lebanon rejects Israel’s demands for unrestricted military action against any perceived violations of this agreement.
Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati called for international support for Lebanon’s stance, emphasizing the need to halt “Israeli aggression.” Larijani echoed these sentiments, stating Iran’s full support for Lebanon’s position and resolution 1701.
Humanitarian Impact
The ongoing conflict has displaced over a million Lebanese citizens, creating a severe humanitarian crisis. Lebanese officials report over 3,445 fatalities since the conflict’s escalation in October 2023. The European Union and international organizations have condemned attacks on civilians and medical personnel, citing violations of international humanitarian law.
In Israel, Hezbollah’s rocket strikes have caused significant casualties, including civilians and soldiers, further intensifying tensions across the region.
UN Peacekeeping Concerns
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported an artillery shell striking its headquarters in Shama, southern Lebanon, without causing casualties. However, a road accident involving a UNIFIL convoy resulted in one peacekeeper’s death and injuries to three others.
Italy and the European Union have condemned attacks on UN peacekeepers, stressing the importance of safeguarding humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
The Path Ahead
While Israeli officials hint at promising prospects for a ceasefire, achieving a durable agreement will require concerted diplomatic efforts and mutual concessions. For now, the region remains embroiled in a cycle of violence with profound humanitarian and political implications.
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