Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani arrived in Iraq on Monday. He will then travel to Lebanon on Wednesday, where the government has approved a plan to disarm Hezbollah, Tehran’s ally, Iranian state media reported.
His three-day visit to the two Arab countries marks his first foreign trip since assuming the post last week.
Larijani’s visit to Lebanon comes as the Lebanese government has tasked the army with drafting a plan to disarm Hezbollah by the end of the year.
Speaking to journalists before his departure, Larijani said that “this visit has two important parts.” The first concerns Iraq, “a friendly and neighboring country of the Islamic Republic of Iran” with “close and cordial relations in various fields, especially trade,” Fars news agency reported.
“During this visit, we will sign an important security agreement between Iran and Iraq, a matter of particular significance. Iran’s approach in its relations with its neighbors is based on ensuring national security while respecting and safeguarding the security of countries in the region,” he said, adding that he will meet with government officials as well as leaders of various political and social factions.
“Listening to the views and proposals of the Iraqi side, as well as discussing the strengthening of bilateral cooperation, will be one of the main focuses of this part of the visit.”
Regarding his Lebanon visit, Larijani said: “Our relations with the Lebanese government and people in various fields, including politics, culture, and the economy, are well-established and extensive. During this visit, important consultations will also take place with Lebanese officials and influential figures.”
The Iranian official considered that “the current situation in Lebanon is sensitive and exceptional,” affirming that “dialogue aimed at strengthening regional stability and security are of great importance.”
He announced that “this tour will also carry clear messages from the Islamic Republic of Iran about “preserving Lebanese national unity under all circumstances, affirming Lebanon’s independence, and strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations.”
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council leads is a strategic body responsible for defining Iran’s defense and security policies.
On Monday, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Larijani's trip "aims to contribute to the maintenance of peace in the Middle East region".
He said that Iran recognized Lebanon's "right to defend itself against the aggression of the Zionist regime (Israel)," adding that this would be "impossible without military capabilities and weapons".
On Saturday, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Tehran “certainly” opposed the Lebanese government’s decision to disarm Hezbollah. Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry responded by denouncing what it called Iran’s “blatant and unacceptable interference” in its internal affairs.
Last Wednesday, Tehran declared it would support any decision taken by Hezbollah, which has been significantly weakened by its recent war with Israel and the loss of its former ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
A prominent figure in Iranian politics, Larijani previously served as parliament speaker from 2008 to 2020 and as head of state broadcasting. He has also been an adviser to the Supreme Leader on strategic affairs and previously held the position of Supreme National Security Council secretary from 2005 to 2007 before resuming the role on August 5.
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