Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, will visit Iraq on Monday before proceeding to Lebanon, where the government has approved a controversial plan to disarm Tehran’s ally, Hezbollah, state media reported.
“Ali Larijani departs today (Monday) for Iraq and then Lebanon on a three-day visit, his first foreign trip since assuming office last week,” Iranian state television announced.
During his stop in Iraq, Larijani is expected to sign a bilateral security agreement before travelling to Lebanon for talks with senior government officials and political figures.
His trip follows Tehran’s strong objection to Beirut’s disarmament plan for Hezbollah — a stance the Lebanese government has described as “flagrant and unacceptable interference.”
“Our cooperation with the Lebanese government is longstanding and deep. We consult on various regional matters, and in this case, we are engaging with Lebanese officials and influential figures,” Larijani said before departing. “Lebanese national unity and independence remain important to us, and we will continue to contribute to them.”
On Saturday, Ali Akbar Velayati, senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, criticised the disarmament initiative, calling it an act of compliance with “the will of the United States and Israel.”
The push to disarm Hezbollah comes in the wake of last year’s war with Israel, which significantly weakened the group. The move has been fuelled by U.S. pressure, anti-Hezbollah political forces in Lebanon, and concerns that Israel could intensify strikes if the group remains armed.
Larijani, 68, was recently appointed head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, the body responsible for shaping the country’s defence and security strategy. Its policies require approval from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
His appointment comes in the aftermath of a 12-day war with Israel, triggered by Israel’s unprecedented mid-June strikes on Iran, targeting military, nuclear, and residential sites.
AFP
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