Larijani: We are always ready to deliver a strong response to any Israeli attack

In an interview with Al-Mayadeen, Larijani emphasized Iran’s “brotherly, friendly, strong, and strategic” relations with Lebanon and Iraq, noting that the countries engage in discussions across various fields. He said that a security agreement signed in Baghdad focuses on achieving security, stability, and calm in both countries, reflecting Iran’s broader view of regional cooperation.

He added that consultations were necessary in Lebanon due to strong ties and recent developments, to provide clarifications.

Larijani stated that American anger stems from their approach to regional security. “Trump says he wants to establish peace through power, but our view is completely different,” he said.

He emphasized that security in the region must come through the independence of nations, their power, and respect for sovereignty—not by one country submitting to another.

Larijani described his meetings in Beirut as positive, calling Lebanon a “brotherly country” that Iran has always supported and defended, including its resistance. He stressed that resistance is a significant asset for regional countries and that each nation decides according to its system, with Iran providing advice when requested but not interfering.

He clarified that the concept of resistance is not limited to “Shia” or “Sunni”; it is inclusive and non-sectarian. “We support Hamas, which is a Sunni resistance, and Hezbollah, which is a Shia resistance; our position is not sectarian,” Larijani said.

Larijani added that resistance is a major asset for the Islamic Ummah and should be supported wherever it exists, but Iran does not use this as a pretext for intervention. He noted that Hezbollah and Hamas have reached sufficient maturity to make their own decisions, and Iran interacts with them on a brotherly basis.

He highlighted that resistance is not exclusive to Muslims; for example, Christians also participated when martyr Hassan Nasrallah was targeted.

Regarding Lebanese politics, Larijani called Nabih Berri one of the great politicians of Lebanon and the Arab world, noting that discussions with him help advance solutions in Lebanon. He emphasized that Iran has communicated its position on resistance clearly to Lebanese officials, making it clear that it does not intend to interfere in other countries’ affairs.

Larijani warned that “devilish” actors may attempt to misrepresent intentions, but Iran has expressed its views transparently to clarify the reality.

On regional diplomacy, Larijani said he visited Iraq and Lebanon because they are longstanding friends but did not go to Syria due to current relations. He noted that normalization with Syria is possible but depends on the Syrian government’s actions. He described the situation in Syria as chaotic and heavily influenced by Israel, with uncertain future outcomes.

He called Egypt an important regional country with good relations with Iran, while noting potential challenges caused by U.S. interference amid global tensions.

Larijani recalled that the U.S. sought to overthrow Iran’s system and create internal strife, but the outcome was the opposite, with even opponents standing by the system. He said Netanyahu had expected regional countries to side with Israel due to certain issues with Iran, but this did not happen; all Islamic countries supported Iran. He added that Netanyahu failed both strategically and tactically in achieving his goals, starting the war only to request its halt himself.

He reiterated that Iran is always ready to respond strongly to any Israeli attack and that Israel will not be allowed to bring stability to the region. Larijani stressed that countries either recognize the futility of war and pursue negotiation—which is beneficial—or use it as a pretext for starting the next conflict—which is deceptive.

He urged the U.S. to clarify its stance, noting that simultaneously talking about negotiation and war shows a failure to understand that war is futile. Iran will never surrender in war. Larijani added that the regional and global outlook is shifting, with a multipolar world emerging, and questioned whether the U.S. can confront China or impose its will on Putin.

He said the U.S. cannot sever Iran’s relations with Arab countries. While ties may not be perfect, they are beneficial. He described a positive beginning with Saudi Arabia, acknowledging differences but emphasizing the potential for deeper engagement.

Larijani praised Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei for maintaining balance during the U.S.-Israel war, replacing commanders quickly after assassinations, and responding firmly to U.S. demands for surrender. He highlighted Ayatollah Khamenei’s active guidance and consultations in military operations.

Finally, Larijani honored the late Hassan Nasrallah as a great, unparalleled leader and expressed pride in knowing him.