Araghchi expressed his “surprise” via the “X” platform at the stance of Lebanese Foreign Minister, Youssef Raji, who did not welcome, according to him, Iran’s response to his invitation. He added that “countries with full fraternal and diplomatic relations do not need a ‘neutral’ place for meetings between their ministers.” Araghchi stated that he understands the reasons for his Lebanese counterpart’s abstention from visiting Tehran, considering the “Israeli occupation and continuous violations of the ceasefire,” announcing his acceptance of the invitation to visit Beirut. He emphasized that his country is keen on enhancing relations based on the “precise principles” proposed by the Lebanese minister.
Lebanese Foreign Minister, Youssef Raji, apologized on Wednesday for “not responding to the invitation extended to him by his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi to visit Tehran at the present time.” The Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement, said that “Raji officially responded to Araghchi’s message,” clarifying that dialogue with Iran remains possible, but he reiterated his proposal to hold a meeting between the two sides in a mutually agreed third neutral country.
Raji expressed Lebanon’s readiness to “open a new chapter” of constructive relations with Iran, provided it is based on mutual respect for each country’s sovereignty and independence, and non-interference in internal affairs in any form or under any pretext. He stressed that “building a strong state requires that weapons be exclusively in the hands of the state and its national army, and that it should have the final say in decisions of war and peace,” emphasizing that abstaining from the visit does not mean rejecting discussion, but is due to the lack of appropriate conditions given the current circumstances.
Lebanese media reported that “Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji, in the context of his remarks on the exclusivity of arms.” The Iranian ambassador to Lebanon, via his “X” account at the time, said, “The disarmament project is a clear conspiracy against countries,” warning against “falling into the trap of enemies.” Lebanese President Joseph Aoun previously affirmed that contentious issues, including the issue of “Hezbollah’s” weapons, are not addressed through the media.
