Iran Condemns Israeli Raids in Lebanon, Blames US

The Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesperson has strongly condemned the recent Israeli military operations and "terrorist acts" against various regions in Lebanon. Ismaeil Baghaei warned of the immediate consequences of the regime's escalating actions and held the United States directly responsible, citing violations of the peace memorandum signed on June 17, as reported by ISNA.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in a post on X, criticized a statement by Israel's National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, who had declared that "all of Lebanon must burn." Araghchi described the post as not just a rant of a genocidal maniac but a public statement from the Israeli regime's national security minister, labeling it as a threat to humanity.

Previously, the US had informed Iran that Israel would not escalate further in Lebanon, according to CNN, citing a knowledgeable source. A US official told CNN that Hezbollah violated the ceasefire, and Israel agreed to let it pass, which was communicated to the Iranians, leaving it to Hezbollah to stop.

According to Reuters, citing a senior US official, Israel and Hezbollah have agreed on a ceasefire set to begin at 4 PM local time today (3 PM Swiss time). The official added that US and Qatari negotiators reached the agreement with Iran's help, stating that after today's exchange of fire, Israel and Hezbollah are now in a ceasefire.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the new Israeli escalation in southern Lebanon and northern Bekaa, stating that the recent raids, which claimed dozens of lives, would not halt diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire. Aoun asserted that the Israeli offensive aims to undermine ongoing efforts to consolidate the ceasefire and end the war, especially following recent developments between the US and Iran.

Aoun assured that the escalation would not prevent Lebanon from working towards a "global ceasefire as soon as possible," a directive he gave to the Lebanese delegation engaged in the upcoming negotiation session in Washington. He emphasized that a comprehensive ceasefire is crucial for addressing other issues, including Israeli withdrawal, Lebanese army deployment, and the return of prisoners.

Meanwhile, the Iranian Authority for the Persian Gulf Strait announced new procedures for ships wishing to transit through Hormuz following the US-Iran agreement. According to a statement published by the Tehran Times on X, during the agreement period, ships must request passage at least 48 hours before arriving at the Strait. For 60 days, the Iranian government will cover the transit fees, and ships must coordinate with the authority due to the presence of mines.

US President Donald Trump criticized Democrats on Iran, questioning the extent of their "stupidity." He claimed that the war had diminished Iran's military capabilities, yet Democrats argue that Iran is better off now than four months ago. Trump stated on his social platform Truth that the US did not request the meeting out of desperation, asserting that Iran is finished and will not receive any money during the 60-day period.