Iran has issued a sharp warning to Israel, saying continued strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon could trigger a “strong response” and jeopardize ongoing ceasefire efforts.
Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said ceasefire violations would carry “explicit costs,” urging an immediate halt to hostilities. His remarks reflect growing tensions as Tehran insists the current two-week ceasefire should extend to Lebanon — a claim rejected by both Israel and the United States.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed the warning, stating that Israeli attacks on Lebanon violate the ceasefire agreement and risk rendering diplomatic negotiations meaningless. He also reaffirmed Iran’s support for Lebanon, signaling that Tehran would not abandon its regional ally.
The statements come after Israel launched some of its heaviest strikes on Lebanon since its conflict with Hezbollah escalated last month, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation.
The situation adds further uncertainty to fragile diplomatic efforts, as talks aimed at securing a longer-term agreement are expected to take place in Pakistan. Qalibaf has been floated as a potential Iranian representative who could engage in discussions with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
As tensions escalate, the risk of the ceasefire collapsing continues to grow, with both military and diplomatic stakes rising across the region.
