3 days ago
Araqchi at Beirut Airport: We Affirm our Support for Lebanon's Unity, Sovereignty in the face of occupation
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi landed in Beirut Tuesday morning as part of a broader regional diplomatic tour, offering strong statements of solidarity with Lebanon against what he described as external interference and occupation.
Upon arrival at Rafik Hariri International Airport, where he was greeted by the Iranian ambassador and members of the Loyalty to the Resistance bloc, Araqchi immediately emphasized Tehran's commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty.
'No party has the right to interfere in Lebanon's internal affairs,' Araqchi declared during a brief press conference, while reaffirming Iran's backing for Beirut in its stance against Israeli occupation. He extended congratulations to the Lebanese people for the upcoming Resistance and Liberation Day on May 25 and offered Eid al-Adha greetings.
The visit, which follows a stop in Cairo, includes planned meetings with Lebanon's President, Parliament Speaker, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister. Araqchi highlighted that Iran's foreign policy prioritizes relationships with neighboring countries and regional allies.
'Relations between Iran and Lebanon are historic, deeply rooted, and based on mutual respect,' he stated, emphasizing Tehran's determination to strengthen bilateral ties. 'Lebanon's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are fundamental to Iran and the entire West Asian region.'
The Iranian diplomat stressed that Tehran's support for Lebanon 'does not in any way imply interference' but rather demonstrates solidarity with 'oppressed peoples.' He condemned ongoing Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories, calling it a violation of Lebanon's sovereignty.
Araqchi expressed hope for 'a new chapter in bilateral relations' founded on mutual respect and shared interests.
Hamid: Iran Has Stood by Lebanon in The Most Difficult Circumstances
For his part, MP Ayoub Hamid, a member of the Development and Liberation bloc, welcomed the Iranian minister at the airport. He emphasized that 'the Iranian people have always stood by the Lebanese people in the darkest of circumstances.' He welcomed Araqchi on behalf of Speaker Nabih Berri, the leaders of the Amal Movement, Hezbollah, the Palestinian factions, and all national and Islamic forces.
'The relationship between the Iranian and Lebanese peoples is solid, marked by a spirit of brotherhood,' Hamid noted, adding that the substantial turnout welcoming Araqchi 'reflects the depth of this relationship.'
