Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed Tehran’s rejection of Israeli attacks on Lebanon, calling for "Israel's" "immediate withdrawal" from all Lebanese territory.

In a message sent to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on the occasion of Lebanon's Independence Day, Pezeshkian condemned "any action that fuels tensions," particularly the Israeli occupation’s strikes on Lebanese soil, stressing that ending the presence of occupation forces is essential.

He also extended his wishes to the Lebanese people for "stability, prosperity, and well-being," saying Iran will continue to stand by Lebanon, its people, and its government and will support coexistence and stability among all Lebanese communities.

The Iranian president added that Tehran is keen to broaden bilateral cooperation "across all fields," highlighting the shared interests linking the two countries.

Araghchi's message to Rajji

The message follows a public invitation by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Rajji, to visit Tehran for direct talks, rejecting the need for a neutral venue and stressing Iran’s non-interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs.

Araghchi responded to earlier comments by Rajji, who said he sees "no taboo" when it comes to the interests of the Lebanese people and called on his Iranian counterpart to hold negotiations in a third, neutral country to address alleged issues between Iran and Lebanon.

On social media, Araghchi addressed Rajji as his “dear friend” and reiterated that Iran does not meddle in Lebanon’s domestic matters. He emphasized that dialogue should focus on strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation, not on external mediation.

The minister also noted that Iran "welcomes any discussions" that help boost bilateral relations and expressed his willingness to visit Beirut if formally invited.