Mikati Condemns Iranian ‘Interference,’ Orders Envoy Summoned

On Friday, Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati criticized comments reportedly made by Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf regarding Tehran’s willingness to negotiate with France on the implementation of U.N. Resolution 1701.

Mikati stated that such remarks represent “blatant interference” in Lebanon’s internal affairs and an attempt to exert unwelcome control over the country. He emphasized that during recent visits by Iran’s foreign minister and parliament speaker, Lebanese officials had made it clear that Iran must respect Lebanon’s sovereignty.

“Lebanon is currently facing an unprecedented assault, and we are working with our allies, including France, to pressure Israel to agree to a ceasefire,” Mikati said. He stressed that it is the responsibility of the Lebanese state to manage negotiations concerning Resolution 1701 and urged all parties to support Lebanon’s efforts rather than impose new forms of control that undermine its sovereignty.

Mikati also directed caretaker Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib to summon the Iranian charge d’affaires for questioning regarding Ghalibaf’s alleged remarks.

Later, the Iranian parliament denied the comments attributed to Ghalibaf, affirming that Tehran supports whatever decisions are made by the Lebanese people, government, and resistance to secure a lasting truce.

Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea praised Mikati’s response, noting that it gives hope that the Lebanese state is beginning to “take responsibility.” Geagea added that Mikati’s remarks reflect the views of all patriotic Lebanese and encouraged the prime minister to continue demanding a ceasefire based on U.N. resolutions 1559, 1680, and 1701, as this is the only way to end the ongoing violence that has plagued Lebanon for nearly two months.