• Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says any deal with the U.S. must include an end to attacks on all fronts, especially Lebanon.
  • The call with Lebanon's Nabih Berri signals Tehran's effort to tie progress in U.S.-Iran talks to a halt in hostilities involving Hezbollah.
  • This linkage underscores Iran's strategy of using Lebanon as leverage in broader negotiations over regional security and sanctions relief.

War Must End on All Fronts, Including Lebanon

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf told Lebanon's Nabih Berri in a phone call today that any potential deal with the United States must include a cessation of hostilities on all fronts, with a specific emphasis on Lebanon. According to people familiar with the matter, Qalibaf stressed that “the war must end on all fronts, including Lebanon,” framing Tehran's negotiating stance around a comprehensive ceasefire.

The call, confirmed by officials in both countries, comes as indirect U.S.-Iran talks continue over Iran's nuclear program and regional influence. By publicly linking a Lebanon ceasefire to broader negotiations, Iran aims to leverage its support for Hezbollah as a bargaining chip, analysts say. A spokesperson for Qalibaf declined to comment on the specifics of the discussion.

Strategic Leverage in Regional Negotiations

Iran has long positioned Lebanon as a critical arena in its regional strategy, using Hezbollah to project power near Israel's border. Qalibaf's remarks align with previous Iranian statements that tie ceasefire outcomes in Lebanon to progress on issues like sanctions relief and security guarantees. “This is a clear signal that Tehran sees Lebanon as integral to any comprehensive deal,” said a regional analyst based in Beirut.

The timing is notable as skirmishes along the Israel-Lebanon border have escalated in recent weeks. Nabih Berri, a key interlocutor between Hezbollah and the Lebanese state, has been urging de-escalation. Attempts to reach Berri's office for comment were unsuccessful.

Market and Regional Implications

Traders and policymakers are watching for concrete ceasefire frameworks, given Lebanon's fragile economy and the broader Middle East risk premium. Short-term volatility in energy markets could persist if talks stall, but any sign of a diplomatic breakthrough might stabilize regional security dynamics. “The linkage between Lebanon and Hormuz security is a wildcard,” noted a Gulf-based economist. “If Iran gets concessions on Lebanon, it could reshape the entire negotiation landscape.”

Historically, Iran has used similar tactics in past diplomatic cycles, weaving humanitarian concerns with strategic demands. The current rhetoric suggests continuity in Iran's messaging, though Hezbollah's independent stance may complicate rapid settlement.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of the call. It occurred today, not yesterday.