Iran wants Lebanon in any ceasefire agreement

In Short:
– Iran insists Lebanon must be part of any U.S.-Israel ceasefire agreement.
– Hezbollah expects an Iran-supported ceasefire to improve its political influence in Lebanon.

BEIRUT, March 25 (Reuters) – Iran is demanding that Lebanon be included in any ceasefire agreement with the U.S. and Israel, according to six regional sources.Iran links the end of the war to halting Israel’s actions against Hezbollah.

An Iranian official stated that Tehran’s aim for any deal with the U.S. is to end the war for Iran and other “resistance groups” in the area.

Neither Iran’s foreign ministry nor Israel’s officials have commented on these statements.

A senior official from the Trump administration noted that ending Iran’s proxy activities and disarming Hezbollah are essential for ensuring peace in Lebanon and the wider region.

One source indicated that Hezbollah has received “Iranian guarantees” regarding its inclusion in a broader agreement.

Iran prioritises Lebanon, resisting Israeli violations similar to those seen after the 2024 ceasefire.

This stance reinforces Tehran’s connection to Hezbollah amid ongoing political instability in Beirut.

Hezbollah previously held significant influence in Lebanon but faced diminished power after Israeli actions in 2024.

Recently, Lebanon’s foreign ministry declared the Iranian ambassador persona non grata, a move condemned by Hezbollah and other Shi’ite leaders.

A foreign official revealed that Hezbollah hopes an Iran-backed ceasefire will enhance its political standing in Lebanon.