Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Youssef Raji, has revealed that his country has received warnings from Arab and international sources regarding a potential large-scale military operation being prepared by Israel against Lebanon. Raji made the comments during an interview, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Minister Raji stated that Lebanon is currently engaged in diplomatic efforts to insulate the country and its infrastructure from any potential Israeli strike. He stressed the importance of these diplomatic initiatives in de-escalating tensions and preventing further conflict.
Regarding ongoing discussions, Raji clarified that meetings are not indicative of traditional negotiations with Israel. Instead, Lebanon is seeking a return to the armistice agreement with Israel, aiming to re-establish a framework for stability and prevent further escalations.
In a notable statement, Raji asserted that Hezbollah’s weaponry has proven ineffective in supporting Gaza and defending Lebanon. He added that the Lebanese state is in dialogue with Hezbollah to persuade them to disarm, a request the group has reportedly refused. “Hezbollah’s weapons have not served the interests of Lebanon,” the Minister stated.
The Foreign Minister also addressed the role of Iran in the region, describing it as significantly negative. He argued that Tehran’s policies are a major source of instability. “We have a problem with Iran,” Raji said, while expressing openness to dialogue, provided Iran ceases interfering in Lebanon’s internal affairs and stops funding what he termed an “illegal organization” within Lebanon.
Recent reports indicate that the Israeli army conducted a series of airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, allegedly targeting Hezbollah positions. This represents a new escalation and a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Since the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel came into effect in late November 2024, Israel has reportedly committed thousands of violations, resulting in numerous Lebanese casualties and significant material damage.
Israel continues to occupy several Lebanese hills in the south, seized during the last conflict, as well as other Lebanese territories occupied for decades, defying the ceasefire agreement and maintaining a presence that fuels ongoing tensions.
