In an unprecedented stance before an official Iranian delegation, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declared that “Lebanon, which never interferes in Iran’s internal affairs, will not accept anyone interfering in its own domestic matters.”
Aoun made these remarks while meeting Ali Larijani, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Expanded Context
- State Authority Over Arms: Aoun emphasized that only the Lebanese state and its constitutional institutions, not militias or foreign-backed groups are authorized to carry arms and ensure national security .
- Inclusive National Unity: He stressed that friendship with Iran must embrace all Lebanese citizens Christian and Muslim alike, not be limited to any sect or faction .
- Recent Iranian Remarks “Unhelpful”: Aoun responded to what he described as “unhelpful” statements from Iranian officials and reiterated that no party should exploit foreign backing against fellow Lebanese .
- Iran’s Response: Larijani extended greetings from Iran’s president, invited Aoun to Tehran, and reiterated support for Lebanon’s reconstruction while publicly declaring that Iran does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal decisions .
- High-Stakes Visit: Larijani’s trip viewed as part of broader regional diplomacy amid the “Axis of Resistance” comes amid Lebanon’s internal push to disarm Hezbollah, adding to the visit’s weight
What’s Larijani Doing in Lebanon?
Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, is on a one-day diplomatic mission to Beirut following his visit to Iraq, where he discussed regional security matters . Upon arrival at Rafik Hariri Airport, he was warmly received by Lebanese figures, including Foreign Minister Rodrigue Khoury, representatives of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Hezbollah-associated factions . During the visit, Larijani is scheduled to meet with:
- President Joseph Aoun
- Prime Minister Nawaf Salam
- Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri
In his remarks, Larijani reaffirmed Iran’s steadfast support for Lebanon, emphasizing that “if the Lebanese people suffer, the Iranian people feel that pain too,” and that Tehran is committed to standing by their interests under all circumstances
Lebanon at a Crossroads
Lebanon is entering a decisive phase in its political journey, as the government moves to reassert state authority over all armed groups. The cabinet has tasked the army with drafting, by year’s end, a plan to place all weapons under state control a direct challenge to Hezbollah and its allies. This comes amid a broader regional realignment, with Beirut strengthening ties to Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and gradually shifting away from the influence of former foreign patrons. Yet, the path forward is complex: Hezbollah’s deep-rooted relationship with Iran built over decades through financial aid, political backing, and military training makes any talk of disarmament highly sensitive, testing Lebanon’s unity and stability.
