'Israel' seeking way out of Gaza, cannot harm Lebanon, Iran says
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Iranian Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani underlines that the Israeli occupation is unable to harm Lebanon as it seeks to drag itself out of Gaza.
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Iranian interim Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani gestures to journalists during a press conference at the Iranian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, June 3, 2024 (AP)
Acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani emphasized Monday during a press conference at the Iranian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, that the overarching framework of Iran's foreign policy is crafted by Iranian institutions and approved by Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
He stressed that these policies stem from the strategic rationality of the Islamic Republic's leadership.
Bagheri Kani chose Lebanon for his first foreign visit, citing the nation's role as the "cradle of resistance" and the strong ties between the Iranian and Lebanese people. He expressed his gratitude to the Lebanese government and people for their solidarity with Iran following the assassination of President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions.
The acting foreign minister reiterated Iran's unwavering and historical support for the Lebanese triad of "Army, People, and Resistance," describing the relationship between the two countries as "comprehensive." He reaffirmed Iran's proposal to supply fuel to Lebanon and Tehran's full support for Beirut against Israeli aggressions.
Palestinian Resistance united
Bagheri Kani highlighted the developments in Gaza, stating that the Palestinian Resistance was fully capable of making decisions about its future. He noted that the Palestinian people have been defending their dignity, land, and destiny for 75 years.
"After eight months of war in Gaza, we see that Washington, the main supporter of the occupying entity, is proposing a plan to end the war," Bagheri Kani said.
He contrasted this with Israel's struggle in Gaza, noting that the Israeli occupation was "seeking a way out of Gaza and is unable to harm Lebanon or engage in a confrontation with the valiant Lebanese Resistance."
The acting foreign minister linked the unity of Resistance movements in the region to Israeli crimes in Gaza.
He emphasized that recent events in the region demonstrate the intellectual maturity of its people and their understanding of Israeli plots against them. He asserted that Resistance has now become a global phenomenon.
Bagheri Kani criticized the US stance, stating, "If the Americans were sincere, instead of proposing a plan to stop the war in Gaza, they should cut aid to the Israeli entity. Without these tools, Israel would not be able to commit crimes against Palestinians, and the war would end automatically."
He also noted that the visits by the late Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to various countries aimed at stopping the war in Gaza.
Improving Iran-Saudi ties
Regarding Iran-Saudi relations, Bagheri Kani affirmed that the bilateral relations are moving in the right direction. He pointed out that since the official resumption of ties between Tehran and Riyadh, both parties have taken serious and effective steps towards cooperation.
The acting foreign minister emphasized that, given the current sensitive circumstances in the region, both Iran and Saudi Arabia have a genuine will to enhance regional security and stability.
He referenced a phone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, during which they discussed the situation in Gaza and the suffering of the Palestinian people.
Bagheri Kani’s visit and statements reflect Iran’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties and regional stability amidst significant political developments and challenges.
