Beirut: Hezbollah has welcomed the recently announced framework agreement between Iran and the United States aimed at ending their military confrontation, describing the deal as a major achievement while renewing its demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
In its first official response to the agreement, the Lebanese group congratulated Iran on reaching an MoU with Washington that led to what it described as a comprehensive ceasefire across multiple fronts, including Lebanon.
“This great achievement is the result of the legendary steadfastness, exceptional resilience and immense sacrifices made by the Iranian people and their leadership,” Hezbollah said in a statement on Monday.
The group argued that the agreement demonstrated Iran’s determination to preserve its sovereignty, dignity and independence despite months of military pressure and conflict.
Hezbollah expressed hope that the understanding would facilitate the liberation of Lebanese territory, the return of detainees and the reconstruction of areas damaged during hostilities with Israel.
“Israel must understand that there is no return to the situation that existed before March 2,” the statement said, adding that Hezbollah would continue to oppose what it called violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty until all occupied territory is recovered and prisoners are returned.
The organisation further insisted that any lasting end to the conflict must include Israel’s full withdrawal from areas it occupies in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah also praised countries involved in mediation efforts that helped secure the Iran-US agreement and urged Lebanese political leaders to capitalise on what it described as a favourable regional and international climate to strengthen national sovereignty and advance Lebanon’s interests through internal unity.
Calling for a unified national stance, the group said such cohesion was necessary to safeguard Lebanon’s interests and confront ongoing Israeli threats.
The agreement was first announced on Sunday by Shehbaz Sharif, who said Pakistan had mediated talks between Tehran and Washington. Sharif stated that a formal signing ceremony is scheduled to take place in Switzerland on June 19.
The announcement was later confirmed by Donald Trump, who said an agreement with Iran had been finalised.
Since April, Lebanon and Israel have reportedly engaged in direct talks under US auspices in Washington, including several rounds of negotiations and security discussions involving military officials from both sides. Hezbollah, however, has rejected recognition of those talks.
According to Lebanese officials, Israel’s military campaign has resulted in nearly 3,800 deaths, around 11,700 injuries and the displacement of more than 1.5 million people. Israel continues to maintain a presence in parts of southern Lebanon, including territories occupied for decades as well as areas seized during the conflict that erupted in October 2023.
