Tehran Issues Ultimatum to US: Cease Lebanon Conflict for Peace
The Iranian government has stated that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an essential and non-negotiable condition for any agreement with the United States (US) to end the ongoing conflict. This hardline stance comes amid intensifying Israeli military operations against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, declared that halting aggression in Lebanon is a critical and non-negotiable element in resolving the broader Middle East conflict.
“We affirm that a ceasefire in Lebanon is a crucial requirement for any agreement aimed at ending the war,” Baqaei stated during a weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday (1 June).
Baqaei added that Tehran will continue to provide full support to Lebanon in confronting Israeli military operations deemed illegal aggression. Iran is committed to taking necessary measures to defend its ally’s sovereignty.
Tensions have escalated following remarks by Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. On X, Ghalibaf highlighted the US naval blockade on Iranian ports since 13 April, stating that Washington’s actions demonstrate a lack of seriousness in pursuing peace.
“Every choice has a price, and the bill will inevitably come due,” Ghalibaf wrote, referring to the consequences of military and economic pressures imposed on Iran.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced an expansion of military operations. Israel claims to have seized Beaufort Castle, a strategic and historic fortress in southern Lebanon. The claim has raised international concerns of a broader open conflict, prompting the UN Security Council to schedule an emergency meeting.
Despite US President Donald Trump expressing optimism on Truth Social about the possibility of a deal, on-the-ground realities reveal a far more complex situation. Baqaei accused the US of violating the ceasefire spirit following attacks on telecommunications towers in southern Iran’s port region.
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed to have struck the base responsible for the attacks. “Iran will take any steps we deem necessary to safeguard national security,” Baqaei stated.