Lebanon’s political scene has been shaken by the ceasefire understanding signed by Iran and the United States, with reactions extending far beyond Israel. While Hezbollah is celebrating the deal and portraying Tehran as Lebanon’s protector, its critics say the agreement leaves the group stronger and deepens the image of Iran as the real power behind the state.
Hezbollah official Mahmoud Qamati said in an interview that as long as the IDF remains in southern Lebanon, the group will keep fighting. He described the ceasefire as a “victory for Hezbollah and Iran.” Opponents of Hezbollah in Lebanon argue the opposite, saying any ceasefire arrangement in the Lebanese arena would further boost the organization, reinforce the narrative that Iran is achieving diplomatic gains for Lebanon, and portray the country as weak and dependent on outside decisions.
The Beirut government is also under pressure after engaging in contacts with Israeli representatives, a move Hezbollah brands as “treason.” Despite that criticism, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is continuing talks with Israel in Washington. After yesterday’s cabinet meeting, government spokesman Paul Morcos said on Salam’s behalf: “We will intensify efforts, in the negotiations taking place in Washington, to ensure a full Israeli withdrawal from our lands, and the release of our prisoners.”
President Joseph Aoun, who has spoken harshly against Iran for months, called Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi by phone yesterday and congratulated him on the ceasefire. In a statement, Aoun said, “We hope the latest developments will end Lebanon’s suffering and the occupation of its lands.” Qamati also said that if the IDF withdraws from all areas of southern Lebanon, Hezbollah would have no objection to pulling back and handing control to the Lebanese army, saying, “We will liberate the lands and the Lebanese army will enter, deploy in the area and take over control, we have no objection at all.”
