Why Iran sees Lebanon as proof that its deterrence still works
Iran is characterizing any Israeli pause in strikes on Beirut as proof of its renewed influence and leverage in an episode that could also expose uncertain regional recalibration.
TEHRAN — Iranian officials are framing any cessation of Israeli strikes on Lebanon as evidence that Tehran's threats remain a decisive factor in regional calculations — and as a signal that its deterrence, after months of confrontation, has not eroded.
The Islamic Republic's official line conditions any continuation of US-Iran talks on an end to Israeli strikes in Lebanon, and has warned of broader consequences if the fighting resumes.
Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that if "the crimes continue," Iran would not only suspend negotiations with the United States but also "stand up" directly to Israel, according to remarks reported by the government's official news agency, IRNA, on Monday.
He made those comments during a phone call with his Lebanese counterpart, Nabih Berri, and tied any prospective US-Iran agreement to the wider regional situation, saying if a deal is reached, it would necessarily include a halt to Israeli attacks "on all fronts, especially Lebanon." In Tehran's view, Ghalibaf said, Hezbollah is central to regional "resistance," as Iran and Lebanon share "intertwined futures."
