Iran Condemns Israeli Attacks in Lebanon, Holds US Responsible

Iran has strongly condemned Israel’s latest military strikes in Lebanon, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei warning that Tel Aviv’s continued aggression could trigger “serious and immediate consequences.” In a social media post, Baghaei said the United States holds direct responsibility for the Israeli attacks, pointing to the first clause of the US-Iran Mo U, which calls for an end to military action across all fronts, including Lebanon. He added that Iran would take whatever steps are necessary to safeguard its national interests, security, and the rights of its allies. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Israel’s intensified strikes in southern Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa Valley are threatening ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace. However, Lebanon remains committed to securing a broader ceasefire. Aoun described the widening Israeli bombardment, along with rising casualties and destruction in affected areas, as a dangerous escalation. In remarks carried by Lebanon’s National News Agency, he said attacks impacting civilians, including women and children, are undermining diplomatic efforts to strengthen the ceasefire and bring an end to the conflict, particularly in light of the US-Iran MoU. Despite the escalation, Aoun said Lebanon would continue pushing for a comprehensive ceasefire without delay, adding that he had instructed the Lebanese negotiating team to prioritise that objective during the upcoming round of talks in Washington. Netanyahu says Israeli troops to stay in South Lebanon