Iran dismisses allegations of meddling in Lebanon

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri in Beirut on Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference after separate meetings,  Larijani dismissed the allegations of Iran’s interference in Lebanon, Tasnim reported.

He advised journalists to avoid misrepresenting Iran’s stances, adding, “I am in charge of my country’s security. Iran has no intention of interfering in the affairs of other countries, including Lebanon.”

Reaffirming Iran’s support for Lebanon’s unity, he said the Islamic Republic’s policy entails “independent and strong countries in the region”, unlike certain outsiders that push for regional nations’ surrender.

“We emphasize friendly cooperation with (regional) countries, not scheduled orders. We believe that cordial dialogues in Lebanon could lead to good decisions,” Tasnim quoted Larijani as saying.

He stressed that Iran respects any decision that the Lebanese government would make in consultations with the resistance.

Asked about the reconstruction of Lebanon, Larijani said Iran will offer whatever assistance necessary in this regard. “The government of Lebanon should prepare the ground for other countries to help too.”