Iran: Strike on Hezbollah a Serious Breach of Memorandum, Tehran Will Certainly Respond
Iran’s envoy to the UN says attacks on Hezbollah or Lebanon would constitute a serious breach of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding and trigger Tehran’s right to respond.
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM – Iran has warned that any attack on Hezbollah or Lebanese territory would constitute a serious violation of the memorandum of understanding reached between Tehran and Washington, stressing that the Islamic Republic reserves the right to respond.
Speaking to journalists at the United Nations in Geneva, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ali Bahreini, outlined the framework of a newly established de-escalation mechanism for Lebanon while addressing the consequences of potential Israeli violations.
According to Bahreini, the mechanism includes a de-confliction cell tasked with monitoring developments and preventing attacks. Any violation, he said, would be addressed through that framework.
Iran and US Establish De-Escalation Mechanism for Lebanon
Bahreini explained that the arrangement is designed to reduce tensions and create conditions that would allow displaced residents of southern Lebanon to return to their homes.
He noted that while Israeli occupation of Lebanese territory remains an obstacle, the withdrawal of occupying forces forms part of the agreement.
The Iranian diplomat added that the ceasefire framework includes both an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.
According to Bahreini, the United States bears responsibility for ensuring implementation of that aspect of the memorandum.
“If an attack takes place, the matter will be discussed within the mechanism agreed upon by both sides,” he said.
Attack on Hezbollah Would Be a Serious Violation
The Iranian envoy stressed that Hezbollah is explicitly covered by the memorandum because it is one of Iran’s allies.
“Any attack on Hezbollah would constitute a serious violation of the memorandum,” Bahreini said.
He added that Tehran reserves the right to respond “in any effective and appropriate manner” should such a violation occur.
Bahreini said Israel must understand that any attempt to attack Hezbollah or Lebanese territory would not only be raised within the agreed mechanism but would also prompt an Iranian response.
“Iran will respond, and will certainly do so,” he said.
Tehran Identifies New Red Lines
In separate remarks, Bahreini stated that any renewed attacks on Lebanon, including Beirut and southern Lebanon, constitute a red line for Tehran.
He also indicated that Iran remains prepared to continue negotiations with the United States if Washington demonstrates what he described as a constructive approach.
At the same time, the Iranian diplomat warned that recent comments by US President Donald Trump pose a serious risk to the ongoing Swiss negotiations.
Bahreini further stated that five provisions of the memorandum of understanding must be implemented before discussions can proceed on Iran’s nuclear program and the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency. (PW)