Senior Advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Akbar Velayati issued a strong statement on Hezbollah's role in Lebanon during a recent interview. He emphasized that Hezbollah is the true defender of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to Velayati, no other force, including the Lebanese government's army, can assume this role as effectively as Hezbollah. He argued that Hezbollah's presence and operations are key to Lebanon's ability to counter external threats, particularly from Israel.
The remarks come amid significant political and security upheaval in Lebanon. Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran, has repeatedly asserted its role in protecting Lebanon while deeply engaging in regional conflicts, especially in Syria.
Velayati's comments underscore the close ties between Iran and Hezbollah and reaffirm Tehran's stance of supporting the group across the Middle East.