Qalibaf: U.S. Green Light for Israeli Operations in Lebanon Makes American Interests Legitimate Targets

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf issued a sharp statement on June 7, 2026, asserting that American backing for Israeli military operations in Lebanon effectively converts U.S. interests into permissible targets for Iranian forces.

In his remarks, Qalibaf characterized what he described as the American "green light" for Israeli actions as a policy shift with significant ramifications. He contended that by providing such support, the United States assumes responsibility for the consequences, making its own strategic and economic assets fair game for Iranian response.

The Iranian official emphasized that his country's armed forces have consistently maintained freedom of action to determine appropriate measures in their own security interests. He indicated that this operational autonomy remains unchanged and that Iran reserves the right to act as it judges necessary in response to what it views as American-backed Israeli aggression in Lebanon.

Qalibaf's statement reflects escalating rhetoric from Tehran regarding U.S. involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts and underscores the deepening tensions surrounding Israeli military operations in Lebanese territory.