Iran has expressed strong support for Lebanon’s efforts to achieve a ceasefire with Israel amid escalating military conflict, particularly aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis resulting from Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah. US diplomatic initiatives are also in motion, emphasizing Resolution 1701 as the framework for any ceasefire agreement, despite existing tensions about its implementation.
Iran has publicly supported Lebanon’s endeavors to secure a ceasefire with Israel, as stated by a senior Iranian official. This support is significant given the ongoing conflict affecting Hezbollah, Iran’s ally in Lebanon. Israel has intensified its airstrikes against Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs, marking the fourth consecutive day of assaults. The airstrikes coincide with renewed US-led diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a ceasefire. According to Reuters, the US ambassador to Lebanon had presented a ceasefire draft to Nabih Berri, the Lebanese parliament speaker, who is backed by Hezbollah in negotiations. During a press briefing, Iranian official Ali Larijani emphasized Iran’s intent to foster a resolution without undermining US efforts, asserting, “We are not looking to sabotage anything. We are after a solution to the problems.” He underscored Iran’s commitment to backing the Lebanese government’s decisions amidst the conflict. Hezbollah’s roots trace back to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and, since its inception in 1982, has received considerable military and financial support from Iran. While a senior diplomat noted that a ceasefire would require additional time but remained feasible, there is growing urgency among global powers to base any ceasefire on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, delineating terms largely unacceptable to Lebanon, notably regarding the deportation of Hezbollah fighters. The hostilities have significantly affected civilians, with reports indicating that since the escalation began in late September, Israeli military actions caused the deaths of approximately 3,386 individuals in Lebanon. Concurrently, attacks from Hezbollah have resulted in the casualties of around 100 Israeli civilians and soldiers over the past year. Israeli officials like Energy Minister Eli Cohen have voiced optimism about a potential ceasefire, marking the highest hopes for resolution since the conflict erupted, especially with political shifts anticipated in the United States’ foreign policy under the incoming administration.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has reignited tensions in the region, primarily affecting Lebanon. Following years of sporadic clashes and hostilities, the situation deteriorated significantly in September 2023. Hezbollah has been involved in cross-border attacks affecting Israel, resulting in extensive Israeli military response aimed at neutralizing what they see as a growing threat. Concurrently, US diplomatic efforts are underway to establish a ceasefire, highlighting the involvement of significant global powers, including Iran, which is directly linked to Hezbollah both militarily and financially.
The ongoing situation in Lebanon and its ceasefire negotiations with Israel are complex and underscored by deep-rooted geopolitical interests. Iran’s backing of Lebanon’s quest for peace reflects its strategic alliances in the region, alongside the humanitarian fallout of the conflict highlighting the urgency for resolution. The next steps towards achieving a sustainable ceasefire will hinge not only on the diplomatic negotiations but also on the commitment of involved nations to adhere to international resolutions designed to secure peace in the area.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
