Beirut – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated Friday that his visit to Lebanon marks the beginning of a “new chapter” and a fresh starting point in the relationship between the two nations. His remarks came during a period of delicate diplomacy, as Lebanon grapples with significant internal and external pressures.
During a joint press conference, Araqchi and his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Rajji, highlighted areas of both agreement and divergence. While both ministers concurred on the perceived threat posed by Israel to Lebanon, Rajji urged Iran to adopt a “new approach” regarding Hezbollah’s weapons, emphasizing the importance of the state’s monopoly on arms.
Rajji articulated Lebanon’s desire for strong relations with Iran, expressing the hope that Iranian support would be channeled directly to the Lebanese state and its institutions, rather than any specific faction. He emphasized that the defense of Lebanon is solely the responsibility of the state and that centralizing decisions regarding war, peace, and weaponry under state control is a prerequisite for seeking assistance from any nation, including Iran.
“The establishment of a strong state cannot be realized in the presence of armed organizations operating outside its authority,” Rajji stated, calling for dialogue with Iran to find a revised approach to the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons. He suggested that Iran, given its relationship with Hezbollah, should ensure that these weapons do not become a pretext for weakening Lebanon or any of its constituent communities.
According to a Lebanese Foreign Ministry statement, Araqchi affirmed Iran’s commitment to building a relationship with Lebanon based on mutual respect and within the framework of both governments. He acknowledged that navigating challenges requires ongoing dialogue and consultation, “despite differences in approaching certain issues.”
The Iranian Foreign Minister emphasized Tehran’s interest in Lebanon’s independence and unity, asserting that its defense is the responsibility of the Lebanese government. He further noted that unity among all sects within the framework of the state is essential for achieving stability. Araqchi clarified that Iran supports Hezbollah as a resistance movement but does not interfere in its internal affairs, emphasizing that any decisions concerning Lebanon are solely the prerogative of Hezbollah itself.
Araqchi’s visit follows recent reports regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah in certain regions. The situation remains complex, with ongoing discussions about the future role of armed groups within Lebanon.
