Baghaei: A Ceasefire in Lebanon Is an Integral Part of Any Agreement
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an inseparable component of any understanding aimed at ending the war.
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM -Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated Monday that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an integral and inseparable component of any understanding aimed at ending the war, warning that continued Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory undermine regional stability and violate existing ceasefire commitments.
Speaking during his weekly press conference, Baghaei described the Israeli regime as the greatest threat to international peace and security, accusing it of continuing its aggression against Lebanon and occupied Palestine despite the ceasefire framework.
“The Zionist regime remains the greatest threat to international peace and security and continues to commit the most severe crimes in Lebanon and occupied Palestine.”
Baghaei said Israeli attacks have resulted in the martyrdom of thousands of Lebanese civilians, the displacement of hundreds of thousands more, and the continued violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty.
He criticized the United Nations and the Security Council for failing to take meaningful action, arguing that the continued impunity enjoyed by Israel would ultimately have consequences extending beyond the region.
According to Baghaei, the tolerance shown toward war crimes and genocide threatens international peace and security and encourages further instability.
He also referred to recent regional developments, noting that Iran’s Armed Forces had targeted the source of aggression in response to what Tehran described as hostile American actions.
Lebanon Ceasefire Cannot Be Separated From Broader Agreement
Addressing recent developments in Lebanon, Baghaei stressed that the ceasefire framework cannot be viewed as limited to a single front.
“A ceasefire in Lebanon is an integral and inseparable part of any understanding aimed at ending the war.”
He said recent developments constitute violations of the ceasefire and accused both Israel and the United States of undermining efforts to preserve stability in the region.
Baghaei stated that Israeli attacks on Lebanon, continued occupation of Lebanese territory, and maritime actions in the region all represent threats to the ceasefire framework.
He added that Iran remains committed to preserving the ceasefire but would not hesitate to take any necessary measures to defend its national security.
“We will not refrain from any action necessary to defend Iran’s national security.”
The remarks come as Iranian officials increasingly emphasize that the ceasefire extends beyond a single battlefield. Earlier on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that the ceasefire between Iran and the United States applies to all fronts, including Lebanon, warning that a violation on one front constitutes a violation of the ceasefire as a whole.
Washington Obstructing Diplomacy
Commenting on negotiations and recent American positions, Baghaei said Iran entered talks with full awareness of the deep mistrust that exists between the two sides.
He argued that contradictory American statements, shifting demands, and inconsistent messages have complicated the diplomatic process and prolonged negotiations.
“Diplomacy is not a substitute for power.”
Baghaei also accused the Israeli regime of deliberately working to sabotage diplomatic efforts and prevent any reduction in regional tensions.
According to him, Israel remains one of the primary factors driving instability and escalation across West Asia.
“We cannot separate the United States from the regime. Whatever has happened in our region, the United States has always been a constant participant.”
Iran Demands Consular Access to Citizens Held in Kuwait
Baghaei also addressed the detention of four Iranian citizens in Kuwait, describing the arrests as unjustified and contrary to international law.
He said the Kuwaiti government is obligated to provide Iran with consular access and warned that allowing the issue to continue unresolved could negatively affect relations between the two countries.
According to Baghaei, preventing foreign powers from using a country’s territory to carry out aggression against neighboring states is a recognized principle of international law and good-neighborly relations.
Focus Remains on Ending the War
Responding to questions regarding recent remarks by US President Donald Trump and discussions surrounding revisions to a preliminary understanding between Tehran and Washington, Baghaei said Iran’s primary focus remains ending the war.
He criticized the current US administration for what he described as contradictory positions and repeated changes in policy, arguing that such behavior naturally affects the course of negotiations.
Baghaei also confirmed that discussions have taken place regarding post-war reconstruction, including proposals involving a reconstruction fund reportedly valued at $300 billion.
He said several options remain under discussion and declined to provide further details. (PW)