Iran Decries Zionist Aggression in Lebanon, Criticizes US Complicity

Esmaeil Baghaei condemned the ongoing Israeli assaults and encroachments on Lebanon’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty. He asserted that the silence and apathy of international organizations, especially the United Nations Security Council, have emboldened Israel to escalate its aggressive actions.

Baghaei stated that the lack of response and apparent indifference from global bodies, notably the United Nations Security Council, have encouraged the Israeli regime to persist in its aggressive actions and alleged violations.

He criticized the United States for its complicity in Israel’s aggressive actions throughout the region, attributing this to its extensive support for the regime.

A statement indicated that due to its extensive backing of the occupying entity, the United States administration is regarded as a collaborator and partner in all alleged crimes committed by the Israeli regime in Lebanon, the occupied territories of Palestine, and the broader region.

An Iranian diplomat lauded the Lebanese population for their “brave resistance and steadfastness” against what they described as Israeli aggression and occupation.

Iran has expressed strong support for Lebanon, pledging “full solidarity” in the country’s efforts to protect its sovereignty, dignity, and independence amidst what it describes as Israeli aggression.

The strikes occurred just days following the conclusion of the seventh round of US-mediated talks between Lebanon and Israel in Rome, which ended without progress. This was marked by Israeli forces launching their most intense artillery assault on southern Lebanon since the adoption of a contentious framework agreement in June.

Lebanon and Israel reached a framework agreement on June 26, facilitated by the United States, detailing a step-by-step withdrawal of Israeli troops from all Lebanese territories under occupation. The process will commence with a pilot project in two undisclosed zones.

The accord lacks a specific timeline for withdrawal, making its completion contingent upon the Lebanese army assuming full security responsibility in the vacated regions and the disarmament of armed factions, with particular reference to Hezbollah.

In the midst of persistent diplomatic initiatives, Israel has sustained its offensive operations in Lebanon.

The ongoing attacks have created doubt around the implementation of the framework, as Lebanese officials report thousands of casualties and injuries along with widespread displacement following the initiation of the latest Israeli offensive.

As reported by official Lebanese statistics, Israeli assaults have resulted in the deaths of 4,335 individuals, injured over 12,250, and forced the displacement of more than 1 million people since March 2.