Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called on Iran to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs, following persistent Iranian efforts to include Lebanon in the emerging ceasefire understandings between the US and Iran.
Aoun’s statement appears designed to draw a clear distinction between Lebanon and the Iranian regime, while preventing Tehran from claiming credit for any future ceasefire or security arrangement involving Israel.
The timing may also be connected to Lebanon’s expected negotiations with Israel. Aoun likely wants any declaration concerning an end to hostilities, Hezbollah’s weapons or new security understandings to be presented as a sovereign Lebanese decision.
Such an approach could help the president justify the move to Lebanese factions opposed to negotiations with Israel. Instead of appearing to accept Israeli or American demands, Aoun could argue that Lebanon itself initiated the process to restore state sovereignty and prevent foreign powers from determining its future.
