Lebanon To Iran: Mind Your Own Business

In a newfound show of Lebanese independence and relative Iranian and Hezbollah weakness, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun made some very firm remarks today (Wednesday) about Iranian statements opposing efforts to disarm Hezbollah and ensure state control over the whole country:

"Lebanon is eager to cooperate with Iran within the bounds of sovereignty and friendship based on mutual respect.The language Lebanon has heard recently from some Iranian officials is not helpful.

"The friendship we want to foster between Lebanon and Iran should not be through one sect or one Lebanese component alone, but with all Lebanese. Lebanon is a final homeland for all its sons, whether Christian or Muslim, and the Lebanese state is responsible, through its constitutional and security institutions, for protecting all Lebanese components.

"We reject any interference in our internal affairs from any party, and we want the Lebanese arena to remain safe and stable for the benefit of all Lebanese without discrimination. Lebanon, which absolutely does not interfere in the affairs of any other country and respects their particularities, including Iran, does not accept anyone interfering in its internal affairs.

"Everyone has paid a heavy price for relying on foreign powers against other Lebanese internally, and the lesson Lebanese draw is that it is not permissible for any party, without any exception, to bear arms or rely on foreign powers.

"The Lebanese state and its armed forces are responsible for the security of all Lebanese without any exception. Any challenges coming from the Israeli enemy or others are challenges for all Lebanese, not just one group, and the most important weapon to confront them is the unity of the Lebanese."

Larijani responded defensively to these accusations, according to the Lebanese Presidency's account:

"Iran seeks to strengthen its relations with the Lebanese state and the Lebanese people on all levels, and I commend the role President Aoun plays in strengthening national unity and uniting ranks within all Lebanese sects and with all components of the Lebanese people.

"Iran does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs, and what I stated upon my arrival in Beirut reflects the official position of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran does not wish for the slightest disruption in the friendship or relations with the Lebanese state and the Lebanese people, and it is eager to assist Lebanon if the Lebanese government so desires.