Lebanon PM tells Iran president country cannot be arena for regional wars

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday that Lebanon does not wish to become an arena for regional conflicts, following Tehran's involvement in Middle Eastern wars through Hezbollah. Salam made the remarks during a meeting with Pezeshkian at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

He emphasized that Lebanon has suffered greatly in terms of security, stability, and economy due to Iran's interference. Salam stated that Hezbollah had dragged Lebanon into the broader Middle East conflict, which began with Israeli-US strikes on Iran on March 2. Israel responded with airstrikes and a ground invasion, resulting in over 4,300 casualties.

The war followed a 2023-2024 conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which started when Hezbollah attacked Israel in support of Hamas in Gaza. Salam expressed hope for Lebanon and Iran to establish a new chapter in their relations, based on mutual respect, non-interference, and shared interests. He urged for Israel's full withdrawal from Lebanese territory and called for Lebanon to regain control over all its territory.

Salam also criticized Hezbollah for refusing to relinquish its arms. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun previously emphasized that bilateral relations should be built on mutual respect and non-interference.