Zarif: Security of Lebanon is security of Iran

Iranian foreign minister has said that the international community must recognize Lebanon's independence and refrain from interfering in the country's internal affairs.

Iran PressMiddle East: Referring to the explosion in the port of Beirut and emphasizing that Iran is standing by the Lebanese people in 'this great catastrophe', Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said: "The deployment of foreign frigates in the port of Beirut are unusual and a threat to the Lebanese people and resistance."

Speaking to Lebanon's Al-Mayadeen television channel, Zarid added: "Several French warships with 700 troops docked in the port of Beirut and the French government claims that the presence of these ships and frigates is in order to help Lebanon."

Zarif also announced Iran's readiness to help Lebanon in the field of energy and other fields, saying: "Tehran is ready to share its experiences with Lebanon in accordance with the demands of the Lebanese authorities."

In another part of the interview, the Iranian Foreign Minister called the security of Lebanon the security of Iran and stated: "Tehran recognizes and cooperates with any government elected by the Lebanese people."

Zarif denied any role of Iran in forming a new Lebanese government, adding: "Iran doesn't have anybody to nominate to take the role in a new Lebanese government, and Tehran's cooperation with Beirut depends on a person chosen by the Lebanese people."

Arriving in Beirut on Thursday evening, the Iranian Foreign Minister met with President Michel Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Foreign Minister Charbel Wahba, and Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Hassan Diab.  104/207

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