Middle East tensions escalated further as Israel intensified military operations in Lebanon, prompting sharp criticism from Iranian officials and raising concerns about the stability of ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Monday warned that recent developments could undermine what Tehran has described as a U.S.-brokered ceasefire arrangement between Iran and the United States. In a statement, Araghchi said the agreement was intended to apply across regional fronts, including Lebanon.
“The ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. is unequivocally a ceasefire on all fronts, including in Lebanon. Its violation on one front is a violation of the ceasefire on all fronts,” Araghchi said, adding that the United States and Israel would bear responsibility for any consequences arising from violations of the agreement.
Iran has also criticized Israel’s military campaign and what it described as maritime restrictions affecting Lebanon, while accusing Washington of failing to ensure compliance with the arrangement.
The Israeli military has expanded its operations in Lebanon in recent days. Israeli officials say the campaign is aimed at degrading the military capabilities and infrastructure of Hezbollah. Reports indicate Israeli forces have taken control of several strategic positions in southern Lebanon, including the area around Beaufort Castle.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, accused the United States of being complicit in the escalation. In a public statement, Ghalibaf said Israel’s actions in Lebanon, including what he described as a naval blockade and an escalation of military operations, demonstrated what he called U.S. noncompliance with the ceasefire agreement. He warned that “every choice has a price” and that consequences would follow.