Controversial Visit of Iranian Parliament Speaker to Lebanon.. Debate over Hezbollah Support

Controversial Visit of Iranian Parliament Speaker to Lebanon.. Debate over Hezbollah Support
Iranian officials' statements highlight a clear contradiction between rhetoric supporting the Lebanese government and actual support for Hezbollah, deepening internal divisions in Lebanon and complica
October 12, 2024, 11:50 pm

غارة إسرائيلية على لبنان \ تعبيرية \ متداولة

In a development stirring debate about Iran's role in Lebanon, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf renewed his country's support for Lebanon and Hezbollah during his visit to Beirut today, Saturday. Qalibaf said in brief statements after meeting Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri that Iran "strongly supports all decisions of the Lebanese government and Hezbollah."

The Iranian official indicated that his country is ready to provide assistance to those displaced by Israeli raids, stipulating that it be transferred through a direct relief bridge between Tehran and Beirut under government supervision. Analysts view this proposal as a possible Iranian attempt to bypass international sanctions and enhance its direct influence in Lebanon.

During his visit, Qalibaf inspected the site of the Israeli raid in the Basta neighborhood of Beirut, which targeted Hezbollah's coordination and liaison official, Wafiq Safa. Standing in front of the rubble, he affirmed Iran's stand alongside the Lebanese, criticizing the silence of international organizations and the Security Council towards Israeli attacks.

This visit comes at a time when international efforts, especially American and French, continue to cease fire between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite the Lebanese government's confirmation of its support for a ceasefire and the implementation of UN Resolution 1701, Hezbollah's media official Mohammad Afif indicated the party's readiness for a potentially prolonged war.

Experts point out that these statements highlight a clear contradiction between Iranian rhetoric supporting the Lebanese government and actual support for Hezbollah, which may deepen internal divisions in Lebanon and complicate efforts for a political solution.

They also see Qalibaf's visit as reflecting an Iranian attempt to affirm its support for Hezbollah in light of international pressures and recent losses incurred by the party, including the assassination of its Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.

In light of these developments, the question remains about the impact of Iranian support on Lebanon's future and its regional and international relations, especially with the continuation of Israeli escalation that has led to the death of more than 1,200 civilians and the displacement of hundreds of thousands from Beirut's southern suburbs and the south of the country since September 23rd.

Levant-Agencies

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