Iran Ready for Prolonged Conflict, Warns Israel Against Beirut Attack

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Iran‘s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, emphasized in an interview with Al Mayadeen that when Iran announced it would respond decisively to an attack on Beirut, adversaries were compelled to reconsider their calculations.

Araghchi also commented on the role of U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that if Trump were to act with rationality, he would never return to the brink of war.

He stressed that Iran is completely prepared to continue any conflict for an extended period, possessing the requisite military capabilities. The nation has the national unity, social cohesion, resolve, and determination to confront any aggression against it.

Araghchi noted that Iran’s military standing has improved since the start of hostilities. “Today, we possess capabilities that did not exist before the war, and the country’s defense industries have become significantly active and strengthened,” he said.

However, Araghchi clarified that possessing the capacity to continue a war does not signify Iran’s desire for one. “We have never sought war. We did not initiate this war and responded positively to calls for negotiation,” he added.

He reiterated that Iran desires peace and security, but peace that is established on the basis of honor and dignity.

The Iranian Foreign Minister warned that any aggression against Iranian territory would be met with a decisive, firm, and proportionate response, a fact proven in the recent conflicts.

Araghchi also stated that the end of this war is not, and never will be, at the disposal of the opposing side. “This war will end in Iran and Lebanon, and this is our clear stance,” he asserted.

Regarding developments in Lebanon, he indicated that Iran’s positions in ceasefire negotiations were clear and consistent from the beginning to the end.

The Foreign Minister, referring to the position of Hezbollah, stated: “The whole world is aware that Hezbollah is part of Lebanon, its society, and its political structure, and no one can eliminate or ignore it.”

Araghchi added that despite extensive efforts to assassinate Martyr Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah’s principles and foundations have not changed.

He also emphasized that internal Lebanese issues must be resolved with the participation of all factions within the framework of dialogue among Lebanese groups.

The Iranian Foreign Minister clarified: “We have not interfered in the internal affairs of Lebanon, nor will we interfere in the future.”

Araghchi stated that “Hezbollah has the capability to defend the interests and demands of its supporters and social base.” Regarding the Secretary-General of Hezbollah, he commented: “We were not surprised by Sheikh Naeem Qassem’s leadership, and I believe he has performed even better and stronger than we imagined.”

He continued: “Sheikh Qassem emerged, took leadership, and courageously continued his path. I have immense respect for him and am grateful for him.”

Araghchi mentioned that during his recent trip to Lebanon, he met with all Lebanese officials and emphasized Iran’s desire to expand relations.

He added: “We view Lebanon as an integrated entity and seek to develop and expand our relations with this country in all political, economic, and cultural fields.”

He stated that efforts are underway to elevate relations with Lebanon to a higher level, and to achieve this goal, Iran’s ambassador is present in Beirut.

The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed regret over a potential misunderstanding at the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs that caused an issue concerning the ambassador. Araghchi stated: “I am confident that the issue of Iran’s ambassador in Beirut will be resolved, as I have complete faith in the wisdom and prudence of our friends and officials in the Lebanese government.”

Araghchi issued a warning to the Zionist regime, emphasizing: “If Israel attacks Beirut, we will strike Israel.”