Lebanon's Ezzedine Hails Iran's Regional Ascendancy, Condemns US Sanctions as Assault on Sovereignty

Hassan Ezzedine, a representative in parliament from the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc, delivered remarks asserting that the Islamic Republic of Iran stands at a pivotal juncture of triumph across diplomatic, political, and military domains. Speaking at an event organized by Hezbollah to commemorate Hassan Mustafa Nasser on the fortieth anniversary of his death, Ezzedine characterized Iran as having established itself as "one of the major countries that will participate in shaping the new world."

The ceremony took place at the Ahl al-Bayt complex and drew an array of diplomats, ministers, parliamentarians, politicians, party officials, religious leaders, and community representatives, alongside crowds of supporters.

Ezzedine emphasized that no force, regardless of its power, possesses the capacity to diminish Iran's standing. He credited Tehran's persistence and resilience for positioning the nation as "the main pillar of the regional system," one that cannot be circumvented in regional affairs.

On the question of Lebanon's role in broader regional negotiations, Ezzedine stated that Iran had ensured Lebanon would receive priority consideration in discussions held in Islamabad, with the aim of incorporating the country into any regional ceasefire arrangements. He asserted that actors who sought to isolate Lebanon from this framework "lost and were defeated by their choices."

The parliamentarian clarified that Iran has not positioned itself as a substitute negotiator on Lebanon's behalf, but rather aims to assist the country in compelling the United States to "stop the hostile operations and remove Israel from our land." He underscored Iran's continued commitment to supporting Lebanon and the resistance movement.

Turning to the sanctions question, Ezzedine characterized the inclusion of Lebanese Army and General Security personnel, alongside representatives of the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc and officials from the Amal Movement on American sanctions lists as constituting "an attack on Lebanon and its security, military and legislative institutions."

He labeled the Treasury Department's actions as "brazen interference in Lebanese internal affairs and an undermining of sovereignty," arguing that such measures aim to pressure Lebanese authorities and impose political conditions upon them.

Ezzedine also took issue with Washington's response to remarks delivered by Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem, asserting that the United States "deals with the Lebanese authority as a tool that has no decision or will." He characterized statements from American officials as "blatant and unacceptable interference" in Lebanese affairs.

In his closing remarks, Ezzedine reaffirmed that "the option of resistance and confrontation with Israel remains the least costly, no matter how great the sacrifices are." He expressed confidence that accomplishments achieved in 2000 and 2006 would be replicated a third time.