Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has asserted that Iran's rejection of the ceasefire agreement with Israel was deliberate, highlighting Iran's dominant hold over Lebanon's decision-making. In an interview with the London Times, Salam stated, "Iran's refusal clearly demonstrates to the world that Lebanon is but a card in their pocket, with Tehran as the sole decision-maker."
He further explained that Iran's rejection, made even before Hezbollah publicly commented, underscores Tehran's deep influence over the group and illuminates its dependence on Iran. Salam remarked, "This refusal highlights the significant control wielded by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard over not just Hezbollah's military and security apparatus but also its decision-making processes."
Discussing Hezbollah's ties with Iran over different periods, Salam noted, "Things were vastly different under the leadership of late Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, who was integrally involved in the decision-making process and possessed relative independence."
He expressed that Iran now exercises unprecedented direct influence over Hezbollah. Salam affirmed, "Only the Lebanese state has the capability to marshal resources for post-war reconstruction. This reconstruction can only proceed through state mechanisms, just as the Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories must be negotiated by the Lebanese state."
Regarding the future outlook for Lebanon amid conflict and challenges, Salam conveyed cautious optimism: "I am not pessimistic; on the contrary, I remain hopeful, albeit not naive. I strongly believe in this country's immense potential. The only path forward is through genuine reform. To truly restore the state, this is the unavoidable route before us."