Iran Demands Clear Timeline for Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon, Urges US to Take Action

TEHRAN / BEIRUT — Iran escalated its diplomatic stance on Lebanon Sunday, formally demanding a clear and binding timeline for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, while calling on Washington to take concrete steps to halt what Tehran described as Israel’s ongoing aggression.
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ismail Baghaei stated unequivocally that “an end to the war in Lebanon is a fundamental and non-negotiable prerequisite for any lasting agreement.” He stressed that vague commitments are no longer acceptable and that Israel must present a verifiable withdrawal schedule before any diplomatic progress can be considered credible.
Baghaei directly addressed the United States, asserting that Washington must move beyond rhetoric and take tangible measures to compel Israel to cease its military operations in Lebanon. He argued that the US, as Israel’s principal backer and arms supplier, bears direct responsibility for the continuation of hostilities and cannot position itself as a neutral mediator while enabling the conflict.
“The international community, and the United States in particular, must recognize that there can be no sustainable peace framework as long as Israeli military operations on Lebanese soil continue,” Baghaei said, warning that the current trajectory risks broader regional destabilization.
The Iranian spokesperson also rejected any diplomatic formula that would allow Israeli forces to remain in Lebanese territory under any pretext, describing a full and unconditional withdrawal as the only acceptable foundation for a durable settlement.
Tehran’s statement comes amid intensifying clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and growing international pressure for a ceasefire. Iran, which maintains close ties with Hezbollah, reiterated its commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, signaling that it intends to remain a central player in any future diplomatic process.
Regional analysts note that Iran’s increasingly assertive tone reflects both domestic political pressures and a strategic calculation that the current moment offers leverage to shape the terms of any eventual settlement.