Beirut: Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretary, Ali Larijani, has asserted that Tehran will remain steadfast in its support for the Lebanese people 'under all circumstances.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Larijani made these remarks upon his arrival at Beirut's Rafik Hariri International Airport for an official visit. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet several Lebanese leaders, including President Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, as reported by the state-run National News Agency.

Larijani stressed Iran's commitment to Lebanon's national interests, stating that any suffering experienced by the Lebanese people is equally felt by the Iranian people. His visit follows recent tensions after Iranian officials rejected disarmament efforts targeting Hezbollah, in response to a Lebanese government decision to restrict weapons to state control.

His trip also comes in the aftermath of a full-scale war that erupted between Israel and Hezbollah, beginning with cross-border warfare in October 2023. The conflict escalated by September 2024, resulting in the deaths of approximately 4,000 people, including Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah, and injuring around 17,000 others.

A ceasefire was achieved in November, yet Israeli forces have continued nearly daily attacks in southern Lebanon, citing Hezbollah activity as the target. Under the truce agreement, Israel was to withdraw fully from southern Lebanon by Jan. 26, but the deadline was extended to Feb. 18 due to non-compliance by Tel Aviv. Israel continues to maintain a military presence at five border outposts.