Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has sharply criticised Lebanese President Joseph Aoun following the latter's comments regarding Tehran's role in Lebanon. In a post on social media platform X, Araghchi stated that Aoun's remarks created the impression that Iran, rather than another actor, was responsible for Lebanon's current challenges.
Araghchi's Response
Araghchi wrote, 'Based on Mr Aoun's comments, one would think it's Iran that has occupied 1/5 of Lebanon, displaced 1/4 of the Lebanese and is bombing his country on a daily basis.' He further rejected the notion that Lebanon was being used by Tehran as leverage in negotiations, adding, 'Had Lebanon been a bargaining chip for Iran, we'd have a deal long ago.'
The Iranian foreign minister concluded his message by urging the Lebanese president to focus on what he described as Beirut's 'real foe,' implicitly referring to Israel. The exchange highlights growing public differences between Beirut and Tehran over regional developments and Lebanon's position amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Background of the Dispute
The remarks came in response to comments made by President Aoun during an interview with CNN, in which he discussed Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In the interview, Aoun addressed his message to the IRGC and Iran, further straining relations between the two countries.
The dispute underscores the complex dynamics in the region, where Lebanon has long been influenced by Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah. Analysts suggest that such public disagreements may signal a shift in Lebanon's foreign policy stance as it seeks to balance its relationships with regional powers.
