THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

US-Iran Deal Leaves Major Lebanon Questions Unresolved A deal between Washington and Tehran that ends the Israel-Hezbollah war leaves many issues in Lebanon unresolved, failing to mention Israel withdrawing from the country or an end to Tehran's support for the armed group. Under US pressure, Lebanese officials have been holding direct talks with Israel aimed at reaching a separate agreement on ending the hostilities, but Beirut appeared to have been sidelined with the overnight announcement on the regional conflict. AFP looks at the deal and the questions it raises in Lebanon. - What does the deal involve? - Details of the agreement to end the Middle East war on all fronts have not been made public, but Iran and mediator Pakistan have both said it includes Lebanon. Hezbollah drew the country into the Middle East war on March 2 with rocket fire at Israel to avenge the killing of Iran's supreme leader in US-Israeli strikes. Israel responded with airstrikes and a ground invasion that Lebanon says have killed more than 3,700 people and displaced more than one million others. An official source told AFP that "Lebanon was not informed of the terms of the agreement or the time of the ce…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Hezbollah welcomes Iran-US agreement, calls for complete Israeli ... June 15, 2026 at 5:52 pm Protesters gather in front of the government building to oppose planned direct negotiations with Israel, waving Hezbollah flags and chanting slogans while demonstrating against Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, on April 11, 2026, in Beirut, Lebanon. [Murat Şengül – Anadolu Agency] Hezbollah on Monday welcomed a framework agreement between Iran and the US aimed at ending their military conflict, reiterating its right to “defend” Lebanon until a complete Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory,Anadolu reports. In its first reaction to the deal, the Lebanese group congratulated Iran on reaching a memorandum of understanding with the United States that resulted in a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon. “This great achievement is the result of the legendary steadfastness, exceptional resilience and immense sacrifices made by the Iranian people and their leadership,” Hezbollah said in a statement. The group said the agreement reflected Iran’s commitment to “preserving its dignity, sovereignty and independence” despite months of conflict and pressure. Hezbollah said t…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Aoun tells Iran 'this is our country' as Araqchi warns of Lebanon's 'real enemy' | Euronews By Chaima Chihi & يورونيوز Published on 06/06/2026 - 14:26 GMT+2 Share Comments Add Euronews on Google Share Facebook Twitter Flipboard Send Reddit Linkedin Messenger Telegram VK Bluesky Threads Whatsapp Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Iran of exploiting Lebanon in its conflict with the US and Israel while calling for direct peace talks with Israel and Hezbollah’s disarmament. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Iran of using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its confrontation with the United States and Israel. At the same time, Tehran rejected these allegations through its foreign minister, who said that if Lebanon really were a bargaining chip in Iran's hands, an agreement would have been reached a long time ago. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT In an interview with the US network CNN, Aoun addressed Iran's Revolutionary Guard, saying: "It is not your country, it is our country". He added, "You are not trying to help us. It is the Lebanese who are paying the price for your own interests, and our interests do not coincide with yours." Aoun stressed that he is committed to doing whatever…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Iran, Lebanon and Trump's negotiations: how Hezbollah ... Share This! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp As Washington and Tehran struggle to keep negotiations alive amid renewed military tensions in the Gulf, Lebanon is emerging as one of the most sensitive variables in the equation. From an Israeli perspective, Hezbollah has become increasingly intertwined with the diplomatic contest between the United States and Iran. “What is happening in Lebanon is connected to the Iranian issue.” With that observation, Orna Mizrahi, senior researcher at Tel Aviv’s Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), summarized one of the main dynamics behind the latest tensions between the United States and Iran, during a briefing organized by the Embassy of Israel in Italy. Recent Iranian strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain, the subsequent US response, and the renewed deadlock in negotiations have pushed the Gulf back to the centre of the region’s overlapping crises. Yet beyond the exchange of missiles, interceptions and threats around the Strait of Hormuz, another arena is becoming increasingly relevant: Lebanon. According to Mizrahi, the Trump administration’s growing attention to Israel’s nort…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Aoun vows Lebanon won’t surrender territory to Israel <p><strong>• Defends Israel talks as ‘diplomatic war’, not betrayal<br>• Syrian FM rules out any military action in Beirut</strong></p> <p>BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday defended a recently signed <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/2012452/lebanese-pm-says-us-backed-framework-with-israel-sets-stage-for-talks">US-backed framework</a> agreement with Israel, arguing the negotiations are not a betrayal and vowing he will not surrender “a single inch of Lebanese territory”.</p> <p>The statements came as Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Beirut to assure Aoun that Damascus has no intention of intervening militarily in Lebanon, despite pressure from the United States to do so.</p> <p>Aoun said Beirut decided to engage in talks “to guarantee Israel’s withdrawal from its territory”.</p> <p>Lebanon last week signed the framework agreement aimed at securing peace between the two nations, a move that sparked major protests from Hezbollah.</p> <p>“Negotiations with Israel are not treason but a diplomatic war without unnecessary bloodshed,” Aoun said on Thursday, according to the presidency. “We will not y…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Exclusive: Lebanese president accuses Iran of using his country as a bargaining chip in peace talks with the US | CNN Video Ad Feedback Lebanese president urges Israel and Hezbollah to halt ‘futile war’ as ceasefire frays in exclusive interview with CNN 13:29 • Source: CNN Lebanese president urges Israel and Hezbollah to halt ‘futile war’ as ceasefire frays in exclusive interview with CNN 13:29 The Middle East See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Summary Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accuses Iran of using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in peace talks with the United States. In an exclusive interview with CNN, Aoun says Lebanese people are fed up with war between Israel and Hezbollah. The president is pursuing direct negotiations with Israel to end the conflict despite opposition from Hezbollah's leadership. AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun delivered a searing rebuke to Iran on Friday, accusing it of using his country as a bargaining chip against the wishes of the Lebanese people in the conflict with the United States and Israel. In a rare and exclusive interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Presiden…

Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in US talks, Lebanese president says Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in US talks, Lebanese president says Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun said “the people of Lebanon are paying the price... for the sake” of Iran’s interests and were “fed up” with war between Israel and Hezbollah. PHOTO: REUTERS Published Jun 05, 2026, 11:06 PM Updated Jun 06, 2026, 02:03 AM Listen Summarise Lebanese President Aoun accused Iran of using Lebanon as a "bargaining chip" in US talks, stating Lebanese people are "fed up" and "paying the price" for Iran's interests. Hezbollah rejected a US-mediated ceasefire plan, despite Lebanese and Israeli officials agreeing. President Aoun told Hezbollah leader Qassem, "The Lebanese people are not your people." Hezbollah, founded by Iran in 1982, ignited hostilities after a US-Israeli attack on Tehran. Conflict has killed thousands and displaced 1.2 million in Lebanon. AI generated BEIRUT – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Iran of using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with the United States on June 5 , in some of his toughest criticism yet of T…

War with Iran: Lebanon calls for direct talks with Israel, accuses ... Lebanese President Joseph Aoun speaks at a press conference in Beirut on February 16. Markus Lenhardt/dpa/picture-alliance/AP The Middle East See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow In a remarkable statement Monday afternoon, Lebanon called for direct talks with Israel on “permanent arrangements for security and stability on our borders,” while accusing the Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah of betraying the country. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun detailed his plan during a virtual meeting with European Union officials, in which he leveled sharp criticism at Hezbollah and Israel for what he called “an attempt to corner my country.” He accused Israel of showing “no respect for the laws of war, nor for international laws.” Israel’s assault on Lebanon has displaced more than 600,000 people and killed more than 400, including scores of women and children, Aoun said. Video Ad Feedback Israel intensifies strikes on south Beirut Israel is intensifying its strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs. It says it is targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah in the militia’s stronghold. CNN's Chief Global…

Lebanon peace talks with Israel ‘independent’ of US-Iran deal: Aoun Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Wednesday that his country’s negotiations with Israel in Washington were independent of the US-Iran deal to bring an end to the Middle East conflict. Lebanon and Israel have been holding direct talks in Washington since April, seeking to end the hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and separate their conflict from the wider regional war. But the announcement on Monday of the US-Iran deal, which Iran and mediator Pakistan say includes Lebanon, has...

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

On the front page: Lebanon facing the US-Iranian agreement test Lebanon between sovereignty and regional negotiations The Lebanese press of 18 June 2026 places Lebanon at the heart of the expected effects of the American-Iranian agreement. Al Jumhouria indicates that President Joseph Aoun wanted to set the official line by saying that Lebanon is leading an independent path in the negotiations. The newspaper insists on a central idea: negotiation is conducted by the state, which remains in control of its decision. This formula responds to a clear political fear. Beirut wants to take advantage of the climate created by the expected agreement between Washington and Tehran, but refuses to be treated as a mere annex to the regional compromise. Al Sharq on June 18, 2026, Joseph Aoun reported that he had taken up this line before Maronite bishops of the diaspora. The President said that Lebanon was in favour of any ceasefire and any assistance, including Iran. However, it insists on one point: no party should replace the Lebanese State. He added that any solution should go through Lebanon and not be at its expense. This formula summarizes the issue of the day. The government wants to pre…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Lebanese president says negotiations with Israel ‘independent’ of US-Iran deal Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Wednesday that the country’s negotiations with Israel in Washington were independent of the US-Iran deal to bring an end to the Middle East conflict.For all the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.“The assurances we have received, and what we insist on, is that Lebanon’s path in the negotiations is independent, though we are certainly for a ceasefire and for any country that helps us, including Iran,” Aoun said, according to a statement from his office, after Iran and Pakistan said Lebanon was included in the US-Iran deal.“The Lebanese state is sovereign in its decision-making, and for the first time, it is the one conducting the negotiations, and nobody is negotiating for us,” Aoun said ahead of a fifth round of Israeli-Lebanese talks next week.Read more: Several Israeli strikes hit south Lebanon: State media

Lebanon vows full sovereignty up to Israeli border as US commander ... World Lebanon vows full sovereignty up to Israeli border as US commander visits Beirut Published 29 Jun, 2026 10:26pm 3 min read AFP Published 29 Jun, 2026 10:26pm 3 min read AFP Argentina wary of 'tough' Cape Verde after cruising through group stage Eustaquio’s stoppage-time strike sends Canada into World Cup last 16 Ancelotti hopes to see more of Neymar against Japan in round of 32 clash This handout photograph released by the Lebanese Presidency press office shows Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun (right) meeting with Admiral Brad Cooper (second left), the commander of US Central Command, at the presidential palace in Baabda on June 29, 2026. AFP Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun on Monday told the head of US forces in the Middle East that Beirut intended to assert its sovereignty over the entire country, with the army deployed right up to the Israeli border. Aoun met Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of US Central Command, to discuss the Washington-brokered agreement signed last week by Israel and Lebanon aimed at a peace deal. Cooper also met Lebanon’s army chief Rodolphe Haykal, with the discussions addressing “t…

#BREAKING | 🇱🇧 🇮🇷 — Lebanese President Joseph Aoun: Iran is using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in their negotiations with the United States. It is unacceptable. Hezbollah must understand that, to solve this problem, there is no other way but to sit and talk.

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Hezbollah's Firm Stance: Lebanon Must Be Part of US-Iran Deal Hezbollah's Firm Stance: Lebanon Must Be Part of US-Iran Deal Hezbollah insists Lebanon must be included in any US-Iran deal. This position was reinforced by a Hezbollah politician as regional tensions escalate. With continued Israeli offensives in Lebanon, Iran's stance demands a halt to fighting as part of any agreement, highlighting Lebanon's pivotal role in regional peace. Devdiscourse News Desk | Hezbollah Is Confident That Iran Will Insist On Lebanon Being Included In A Deal With The United States | Updated: 12-06-2026 17:20 IST | Created: 12-06-2026 17:20 IST This image is AI-generated and does not depict any real-life event or location. It is a fictional representation created for illustrative purposes only. SHARE Hezbollah is firm on its stance that any deal between the United States and Iran must include Lebanon, according to a prominent Hezbollah politician. The group has longstanding ties with Iran, and this inclusion signifies Lebanon's critical role in the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. Recent events have seen Israeli forces continuing their occupation of southern Lebanon, with reports of a…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Lebanese president says Iran using his country as ‘bargaining chip’ in talks with US <p>Joseph Aoun asks, 'Aren't you fed up with war since 1948?'; Lebanese parliament speaker backs pullout of both ally Hezbollah and IDF from south Lebanon; anti-Hezbollah activists sentenced for inciting Israeli attacks</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com/lebanese-president-says-iran-using-his-country-as-bargaining-chip-in-talks-with-us/">Lebanese president says Iran using his country as &#8216;bargaining chip&#8217; in talks with US</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com">The Times of Israel</a>.</p> <figure><img src="https://static-cdn.toi-media.com/www/uploads/2026/04/AP26114485260260-e1780072477667-1024x640.jpg" title="Lebanese president says Iran using his country as &#8216;bargaining chip&#8217; in talks with US" border="0" width="160" height="100" class="type:primaryImage"></figure>

Lebanese president’s aide says Hezbollah must be disarmed, calls for Israeli withdrawal A senior political adviser to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Thursday there is broad agreement in Lebanon on the need to disarm Hezbollah, while urging Washington to press Israel to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory.“Everyone agrees on the necessity to address Hezbollah’s weapons,” Jean Aziz, a political adviser to Aoun, said.For all the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.Speaking at Chatham House in London, Aziz described Hezbollah’s disarmament as a three-stage process known as “DDR.” Disarmament, demobilization and reintegration is a framework commonly used in political science terms to best transform non-state armed groups, which Aziz said Hezbollah was, into civilian or political actors.Aziz said Hezbollah was not a “set of mercenaries” from outside Lebanon. “They are Lebanese people whom the IRGC has invested tens of millions of dollars in for 40 years in technology, indoctrination, education, schools, hospitals, and building an

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in US talks, Lebanese president says Shi'ite Muslim Hezbollah, founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982, ignited the latest hostilities more than three months ago when it opened fire in solidarity with Tehran as Iran came under US-Israeli attack. Reuters 05 June, 2026, 10:00 pm Last modified: 05 June, 2026, 10:03 pm Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun addresses the 80th United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York, US, 23 September, 2025. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Iran of using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with the United States on Friday, in some of his toughest criticism yet of Tehran and its Lebanese ‌ally Hezbollah as it wages war with Israel. In a CNN interview, Aoun said "the people of Lebanon are paying the price ... for the sake" of Iran's interests, and were "fed up" with war between Israel and Hezbollah - comments reflecting deep divisions along Lebanon's confessional and political faultlines. "They are using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in their negotiation with the ⁠United States," Aoun said of Iran, according to excerpts of the interview published on the CN…

Hezbollah and 'Amal Movement's' Power Struggle Stalls Lebanon's ... Hezbollah and ‘Amal Movement's’ Power Struggle Stalls Lebanon's Government Reports There are efforts to prevent the Shiite duo from obstructing the Lebanese government. Also Is Tunisia’s Official Support for Palestine Starting to Crack? Albanese Row Lifts the Lid The Israeli Lobby Row That Rocked Labour: Why Keir Starmer Lost Power Record-Breaking Heatwaves: How Summer Exposed the Fragility of Europe’s Infrastructure Border Gold Sparks Tensions: Inside the Egypt–Sudan Struggle Over the Nubian Shield’s Mineral Riches ‘America First’ Meets ‘Israel First’ : How War on Iran Is Redrawing a Historic Alliance ‘America First’ Meets ‘Israel First’ : How War on Iran Is Redrawing a Historic Alliance a year ago 12 Print Share Hezbollah and “the Amal Movement,” led by Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, known collectively as the "Shiite duo," continue to obstruct the formation of the new government by appointed Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam. They are attempting to impose ministerial names outside of the "competency spectrum." Since Lebanese President Joseph Aoun tasked the 71-year-old Salam with forming the governm…

Mohan Sinha12 Jun 2026, 13:38 GMT+10 BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iran is pursuing a calculated strategy to hold on to Lebanon as its last stronghold of influence on the Mediterranean, but the Lebanese leadership resents being treated as a bargaining chip in a wider geopolitical deal. This effort clashes with a major U.S.-backed negotiation between Lebanon and Israel, which aims to end decades of conflict along their border and reshape the balance of power in the region. However, Lebanon is pushing back. President Joseph Aoun said that Lebanon's future should be decided by its own people, not by Iran or Israel, and described the talks as a fight to protect the country's independence. He said Lebanon can work with Iran, but will not accept Iran telling it what to do. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign country and should not become a battlefield for others. Aoun also said he is committed to diplomacy, adding that there is no military solution and both sides must negotiate to end the conflict. Even so, Lebanon is stuck. Hezbollah has openly rejected direct talks with Israel, calling them unacceptable, and has not given the government any clear plan to resolve the crisis. Aoun warned th…

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun to Iran: Stop Using Our Country as a ... Joseph Aoun accuses Tehran of pursuing its own interests at Lebanon’s expense Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has sharply criticised Iran for what he described as interference in his country’s affairs, accusing Tehran of using Lebanon as leverage in its wider confrontation with the United States and Israel. In an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Aoun said Lebanese citizens were exhausted by years of conflict and rejected any attempt to make the country a pawn in regional power struggles. “The people of Lebanon are paying the price,” Aoun said, arguing that Iran’s strategic interests do not align with those of Lebanon. The unusually direct criticism comes at a sensitive moment for Lebanon, which is once again caught up in tensions stemming from the broader confrontation between Iran and Israel. The country is also trying to preserve a fragile ceasefire agreement reached this week between Israel and Lebanon. Aoun reserved some of his strongest remarks for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), saying decisions affecting Lebanon should be made by the Lebanese state rather than external act…