TEHRAN – Iran will continue to back Lebanon’s national decisions, Parliament Speaker Muhammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Sunday, stressing the importance of maintaining stability in the Arab country. 
Speaking during a meeting with a Lebanese parliamentary delegation led by Ali Hassan Khalil, deputy to Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Ghalibaf expressed Tehran’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and political cohesion.
“We have always supported national decisions in Lebanon and emphasize maintaining a calm and stable environment in the country,” Ghalibaf said.
He praised the close relationship between Iran and Berri, describing it as “very sincere” and highlighting frequent coordination on regional issues. 
Ghalibaf also referenced the late Qasem Soleimani, the top Iranian general assassinated in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020, who had worked in Iraq, Syria, and other countries with the aim of defending the Muslim community against takfiri and Israeli terrorism. 
“Martyr Soleimani acted without distinction between Sunni and Shia and considered enemies of the Islamic world as enemies of Iran,” he said.
Ghalibaf hit out at Israel’s conduct in the region, noting that ceasefire agreements, including with Lebanon, have often been violated by the Zionist regime. 
“The ceasefire was only on paper. Whenever the Israeli regime finds an opportunity, it continues its crimes and expansionism. Since the ceasefire, 300 people have been killed in Lebanon,” he said.
He also praised Berri’s leadership during times of conflict. “Mr. Nabih Berri is a symbol of unity and a prudent figure in Lebanon. He acted wisely throughout the recent conflicts, and I followed these developments closely,” Ghalibaf said.
Khalil, speaking on behalf of Berri, expressed appreciation for Iran’s support, especially during periods of regional conflict. 
“Iran stood with Lebanon during one of the most difficult wars in recent times. We hope Iran will continue to support us in facing future challenges,” he said. 
Khalil also reiterated that despite ongoing Israeli aggression, Lebanon and the resistance remain committed to the terms of the ceasefire.