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The leader of Iran's top security organization, Ali Larijani, is set to visit Iraq on Monday before proceeding to Lebanon, where the government has sanctioned a plan to disarm Hezbollah, an ally of Tehran, according to state media.
State television reported that “Ali Larijani departs today (Monday) for Iraq and then Lebanon for a three-day trip, his first international visit since assuming office last week.” In Iraq, Larijani intends to sign a bilateral security agreement prior to traveling to Lebanon, where he will engage with senior officials and prominent figures.
His visit to Lebanon follows Tehran's strong opposition to the government's proposal to disarm Hezbollah, a move that Beirut has denounced as a “blatant and unacceptable interference.”
Larijani told state TV prior to his departure, “Our collaboration with the Lebanese government is long-standing and profound. We consult on various regional matters. In this specific context, we are in discussions with Lebanese officials and key influencers in Lebanon.”
He added, “In Lebanon, our stances are already well-known. It is crucial to maintain Lebanese national unity under all circumstances. Lebanon’s sovereignty remains significant to us, and we will support it.”
In related news, Al Jazeera reports that an Israeli attack resulted in the deaths of five journalists in Gaza. The SEC DG has been elected as vice-chair of a global securities regulatory body. Over 600 pilgrims were hospitalized due to a chlorine gas leak in Iraq.
On Saturday, Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior adviser to Iran's supreme leader, characterized the disarmament initiative as yielding “to the demands of the United States and Israel.”
This push for disarmament emerged following last year's conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which significantly diminished the group's once considerable political and military influence.
The situation also arises amid pressure from the United States and anti-Hezbollah factions in Lebanon, alongside concerns that Israel may intensify its assaults if Hezbollah remains armed.
Iran has appointed the 68-year-old Larijani to lead the Supreme National Security Council, which is tasked with outlining Iran’s defense and security policies, subject to the approval of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
This appointment follows a 12-day war with Israel, during which an unprecedented attack on Iran was launched in mid-June, targeting military, nuclear, and residential facilities.
