Iran Blames US Deal Negotiators for Hezbollah's Setbacks

Iranian authorities, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and key political figures, have sharply criticized the negotiators involved in a June US-Iran deal, holding them responsible for Hezbollah's recent defeats during Israel's capture of the Al-Taher mountain range in Lebanon. According to Iran International, the Lebanese group's failures have become a focal point for internal political disputes within Iran.

The domestic political opposition has accused the negotiators, who signed a memorandum of understanding with the United States in Pakistan in June, of a diplomatic failure. Critics argue that the agreement undermined Tehran's ability to respond effectively to the escalation in Lebanon, despite the document's formal stipulation of a cessation of hostilities between the parties across all conflict arenas.

The plan included 14 key points, such as the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, the gradual lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, and a freeze on new sanctions contingent on Tehran meeting reciprocal demands. However, nearly three months after the agreement's conclusion, none of its core provisions have been implemented.

Experts observe that the growing internal discontent in Iran reflects a profound crisis of confidence in official diplomacy. The failure of the agreements with Washington, coupled with the Israeli army's successes, is placing significant pressure on the country's leadership, compelling them to seek scapegoats among the negotiation participants. Authorities are continuing to assess the risks of further regional escalation, while critics are calling for a revision of foreign policy and decisive retaliatory measures against Israeli operations in Lebanon.