Iran has said that respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is a central component of an interim memorandum of understanding being negotiated with the United States, as diplomatic discussions continue ahead of a possible signing in Switzerland.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Lebanon remains a “critical part” of the agreement framework and confirmed that Tehran is closely monitoring developments in the region.
“Respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon is part of the interim agreement with the US,” Baghaei told reporters.
He added that Iran’s position is shaped by what it describes as ongoing regional tensions and recent attacks in Lebanon.
Lebanon at the centre of negotiations
Baghaei said Lebanon’s national sovereignty is one of the key pillars of the proposed memorandum of understanding, which he said also aims to address wider regional hostilities.
“The deal emphasizes ending the war on all fronts, including respecting the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon,” he said.
He further stressed that “no agreement will be sustainable” without what he described as comprehensive guarantees for Lebanon’s security and independence.
‘Significant progress’ in talks
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said significant progress had been made over the past 24 hours in negotiations with the United States.
He also confirmed that regional diplomatic visits are planned ahead of the expected signing of the agreement in Switzerland this week.
Baghaei reiterated that Iran would abide by the agreement if finalised, while urging Washington to fulfil its commitments.
“The US should take appropriate measures to fulfill its promises,” he said.
Strong rhetoric on regional conflict
During the press briefing, Baghaei repeated Iran’s position on recent regional conflicts, saying Israeli operations in Lebanon must end completely and accusing Israel of targeting civilian areas in Beirut.
He also criticised what he described as failures by international organisations to respond to the conflict, while praising domestic resistance and support during the war.
“The sacrifices of the martyrs will always be remembered,” he said.
Focus shifts to implementation
While Iran has signalled optimism about progress in talks, officials have also stressed that the durability of any agreement will depend on strict implementation and guarantees related to regional security, particularly in Lebanon.
Diplomatic sources suggest discussions are continuing as both sides work toward finalising the text of the memorandum.
