Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has publicly urged Iran to stay out of Lebanon’s affairs amid ongoing regional tensions. He accused Tehran of using Lebanon as a bargaining tool in negotiations with the United States. The remarks highlight growing concerns over foreign influence as conflict continues to affect the country.
In an interview with CNN, Aoun said Lebanon had become trapped between Iran, Israel, and the United States. He stressed that Lebanon should not be treated as leverage in broader geopolitical disputes. Addressing Iran directly, he said the country should not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs.
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Aoun also questioned the effectiveness of military solutions in resolving regional conflicts. He argued that continued warfare would not bring lasting peace to northern Israel. The Lebanese president called for efforts that prioritize stability and political solutions over prolonged military confrontation.
The comments come as fighting between Israel and armed groups in Lebanon continues to exact a heavy toll. According to Aoun, more than 3,500 people have been killed in Israeli attacks over the past three months. He added that approximately one-fifth of Lebanon’s population has been displaced by the violence.
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Lebanon remains under severe economic and humanitarian pressure as the conflict persists. International efforts to secure a broader regional ceasefire have faced significant obstacles. Aoun’s remarks underscore Beirut’s desire to avoid becoming a battleground for competing regional powers while seeking relief from the ongoing crisis.