Iran vows to support Lebanon against Israeli aggression

Iran has warned it will not hesitate to assist Lebanon in confronting Israel’s ‘illegal aggression’ against the country. ‘We have repeatedly stated that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an integral part of any ceasefire and final agreement to end the war with the United States,’ said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei in a press conference quoted by IRNA on Monday (1 June). The statement came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered military airstrikes on Beirut, Lebanon’s capital, in a recent escalation despite the ongoing ceasefire in Lebanon. Tensions in the Middle East escalated after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran in February. Tehran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel and US allies in the Gulf region, as well as closing the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire began on 8 April through Pakistani mediation, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to produce a sustainable agreement. Since then, both sides have continued exchanging proposals to resume direct negotiations and end the conflict. Military escalation intensified in southern Lebanon after Israeli forces seized Beaufort Castle, prompting the UN Security Council to hold an emergency meeting today. Netanyahu confirmed Israeli troops had crossed the Litani River in Lebanon amid security talks between military delegations in Washington. UNICEF reported 15 children killed and 62 injured in Lebanon over the past seven days due to ceasefire violations between Israel and Hezbollah. Recent satellite analysis revealed the failure of US and Israeli bombing strategies, with Iran successfully dismantling its underground missile bases using only basic heavy machinery. The United Nations condemned Israel’s plan to expand its control over Gaza by 70% on Friday. Israel has formally severed ties with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after the UN added Israel to a blacklist for sexual violence in conflict zones. The UN and UNICEF warned that Netanyahu’s plan to extend control over 70% of Gaza would worsen the health crisis and suffering of children.