Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed renewed efforts to disarm Hezbollah as unrealistic and doomed, reaffirming Iran’s support for the Lebanese resistance movement while emphasizing that Tehran plays no role in its operational decisions.

Why it matters:

Araghchi’s remarks signal Tehran’s readiness to defend the “Axis of Resistance” against Western and Israeli agendas.

The big picture:

Hezbollah has responded with defiance to the U.S. proposal to disarm the resistance movement, bolstered by public statements from top Lebanese political figures and a visible post-war restructuring of its capabilities.

What he’s saying:

Abbas Araghchi:

“Some have once again pursued this path under the illusion that Hezbollah is vulnerable. But the firm stance of Hezbollah’s leadership and its resolute statement made it clear they will resist such pressure.”

“Prominent figures like Sheikh Naim Qassem and Nabih Berri have voiced strong support for Hezbollah. The Shi’a movement in Lebanon is at the height of its strength.”

“Based on available information, damage from recent conflicts has been repaired, Hezbollah has reorganized, deployed its forces, and replaced commanders. They possess the capacity to defend themselves.”

“Iran supports Hezbollah, but without interfering in its decisions. The choice of future actions lies entirely with Hezbollah itself.”