Araghchi: Iran Ready to Open “A New Chapter” with Lebanon
Iran’s foreign minister underscores the need for principled resistance against Israeli aggression and U.S.–backed pressure while welcoming Beirut’s invitation to deepen bilateral ties.
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Iranian Foreign Minister Sayyed Abbas Araghchi has responded to his Lebanese counterpart Youssef Rajji, affirming that Tehran is fully prepared to enter “a new chapter” of bilateral relations — a statement that underscores Iran’s commitment to strengthening ties with Lebanon despite the destabilizing role of Israel and its Western backers.
In a post published on his X account on Thursday, Araghchi thanked Rajji for his “kind invitation,” reiterating Iran’s long-standing view that relations between the two nations are rooted in brotherhood and shared strategic interests.
In remarks issued Thursday, Araghchi highlighted that Iran remains committed to direct, brotherly diplomacy without external intermediaries. This message stands out as Washington and Tel Aviv continue their destabilizing campaigns across the region.
Araghchi Welcomes Beirut’s Invitation, Notes Surprise Over Declined Reciprocal Visit
According to Tasnim News, the Iranian foreign minister welcomed the invitation extended by Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji, stating that Tehran also seeks a “new chapter” in relations with Beirut.
Araghchi said: “I am grateful for Mr. Youssef Rajji’s kind invitation. At the same time, his decision not to accept a reciprocal invitation from Iran—despite the warm hospitality he received during my previous visit to Lebanon—is surprising. It is clear that foreign ministers of countries with brotherly relations and full diplomatic ties do not need a ‘neutral’ venue for their meetings.”
The statement implicitly rejects Western-imposed frameworks that seek to limit direct cooperation among resistance-aligned nations.
Iran Understands Lebanon’s Constraints Under Israeli Aggression
Araghchi reiterated that Lebanese hesitation to visit Tehran is rooted in the realities on the ground—namely Israeli occupation and blatant ceasefire violations.
He added: “Given the Israeli occupation in Lebanon and the blatant violation of the ceasefire, I completely understand why my esteemed Lebanese counterpart is not prepared to travel to Tehran.”
By framing the situation in these terms, Araghchi underlined that regional instability is driven by Israeli aggression, strongly backed by the United States—not by Iran–Lebanon diplomatic dynamics.
Iran Gladly Accepts Visit to Beirut, Affirms New Phase of Cooperation
As a gesture of goodwill and regional solidarity, Araghchi confirmed that he gladly accepts Rajji’s invitation to Beirut.
“Therefore, I gladly accept his invitation to visit Beirut. We, too, seek a ‘new chapter’ in bilateral relations—relations based precisely on the principles Minister Rajji has emphasized.”
With this message, Iran signals its readiness to deepen strategic cooperation with Lebanon despite ongoing U.S.–Israeli pressure, reinforcing a united regional front. (PW)