Iran warns Israel to leave Lebanon as regional tensions continue

Iran has issued a fresh warning to Israel, demanding that it withdraw from all Lebanese territory or face what Tehran described as an eventual defeat.

Iran has issued a fresh warning to Israel, demanding that it withdraw from all Lebanese territory or face what Tehran described as an eventual defeat. The statement came from Esmaeil Qaani, the commander of Iran’s Quds Force, who said Israel would either leave Lebanon willingly or be forced out in humiliation. His remarks added to growing tensions in the region as diplomatic efforts continue over the future of southern Lebanon.

The warning came after reports suggested that Israel had reduced its military presence in part of southern Lebanon as a gesture of goodwill. However, both Israeli and Lebanese officials rejected those claims. Israeli authorities insisted there had been no withdrawal from what they describe as a security buffer zone, while Lebanese military officials said Israeli troops remain active and continue enforcing restrictions in the area.

The United States has been leading discussions between Israel and Lebanon in an effort to reduce tensions along the border. One proposal under consideration would allow the Lebanese Army to take control of limited areas currently occupied by Israeli forces. The plan is intended to strengthen Lebanon’s authority in the south while preventing armed groups from operating there.

According to a US State Department official, the proposal also aims to remove Hezbollah’s military infrastructure and weapons from the region. Washington believes the process could help restore stability, allow displaced families to return home, and support reconstruction efforts. The official said Israel had already taken practical steps to support the initiative, but Israeli defence officials denied that any military pullback had taken place.

At the same time, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been meeting Gulf Arab leaders to explain Washington’s proposed framework for a broader agreement with Iran. During his visit to Bahrain, Rubio assured regional partners that any future deal would not come at the expense of their security. Gulf nations remain cautious, fearing that a softer approach toward Tehran could shift the balance of power in the Middle East.

Iran also objected to a newly announced maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz. The Revolutionary Guards said any vessel using the waterway must follow routes approved by Iran and remain in contact with Iranian naval forces. Officials warned that ships ignoring these requirements could face action, raising further concerns about freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

Meanwhile, Tehran strongly criticised NATO after Secretary General Mark Rutte said several alliance members had supported US military operations against Iran by providing bases and logistical assistance. Iran accused NATO of taking part in what it called an illegal war and claimed the alliance had violated international law. Italy later responded by saying it had only authorised technical and logistical support for American flights and had not taken part in combat operations.

US President Donald Trump also said he would reject any future agreement with Iran that allowed charges on international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. He argued that accepting such fees would create a dangerous example for other countries. The developments highlight the fragile security situation in the Middle East as military tensions continue alongside diplomatic negotiations.