• Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeel Baghaei says respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity is part of an interim agreement with the U.S.
  • The statement links Lebanon's status to broader U.S.-Iran negotiations, potentially affecting Hezbollah and regional dynamics.
  • The move signals Tehran's strategy to use Lebanon as a bargaining chip in talks with Washington.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeel Baghaei said on Thursday that respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is considered an integral part of an interim agreement with the United States. The statement, made during a press briefing in Tehran, frames Lebanon-related concerns as a key component of ongoing negotiations between the two countries aimed at de-escalating regional tensions.

“The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon are not separate issues; they are part of our understanding with the U.S.,” Baghaei said, according to Iranian state media. He did not provide further details on the interim agreement, which has been the subject of indirect talks mediated by regional actors.

The comments come amid heightened diplomatic activity between Iran and the U.S., with discussions focused on containing broader regional conflict, including the situation in Lebanon. Iran has long positioned itself as a key interlocutor in Lebanon, maintaining ties with Lebanese officials and allied groups like Hezbollah. By tying Lebanon’s status to a U.S.-Iran pact, Tehran appears to be seeking to preserve its influence in the country while potentially using it as a bargaining chip for sanctions relief or other concessions.

Analysts say the move could complicate U.S. diplomacy with Lebanon and other regional actors, including Israel and Gulf states. “Iran is signaling that Lebanon’s fate is tied to its own negotiations with Washington,” said a regional analyst familiar with the talks. “This could raise the stakes for any ceasefire or political settlement.”

Attempts to reach the U.S. State Department for comment were not immediately successful. The Iranian spokesperson’s remarks underscore the intricate web of alliances and interests in the Levant, where any progress in U.S.-Iran talks could reshape the security landscape.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.