Hezbollah Hails Iran-U.S. Deal as 'Great Victory,' Urges Israel's Expulsion

Hezbollah's deputy leader, Naim Qassem, hailed an emerging understanding between Iran and the United States to de-escalate regional conflict as a "great victory." He described the deal, which reportedly includes provisions for Lebanon, as a "pivotal point" that should be leveraged to force Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

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linking the Lebanese arena to the accord and 'forcing Israel to stop its aggression'

Qassem thanked Iran for linking the Lebanese arena to the accord, asserting that it compels Israel to cease its aggression. He urged Lebanese authorities to capitalize on this moment to achieve Israel's expulsion, referencing the ongoing Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon following Hezbollah's involvement in the wider regional war.

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this pivotal point following the agreement… to achieve the expulsion of Israel

However, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun maintained a distinct position, emphasizing that Lebanon's direct negotiations with Israel, currently underway in Washington, are independent of the U.S.-Iran agreement. While Aoun expressed openness to any country assisting Lebanon, including Iran, he stressed that "interference in Lebanese affairs is not permitted."

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The assurances we have received, and what we insist on, is that Lebanon’s path in the negotiations is independent, though we are certainly for a ceasefire and for any country that helps us, including Iran.

Hezbollah has previously voiced opposition to the ongoing talks, rejecting any deal that involves disarmament and raising concerns about renewed internal conflict. Qassem specifically stated that negotiations with Israel should focus on "mutual security" and not disarmament, which he characterized as an Israeli ploy. The differing stances highlight the complex political landscape in Lebanon as it navigates regional tensions and its own internal dynamics.

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Interference in Lebanese affairs is not permitted.