Iran Warns US Not to Let Netanyahu ‘Undermine Diplomacy’ Amid Fragile Ceasefire

Tehran — Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has cautioned the United States against allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to derail ongoing diplomatic efforts, as a fragile ceasefire follows weeks of intense conflict.

In a post on X, Araghchi linked the regional situation to Netanyahu’s domestic legal troubles, suggesting that a broader ceasefire — including in Lebanon — could accelerate political consequences for the Israeli leader. He warned that if Washington allows diplomacy to collapse, it would be a deliberate choice, adding that Iran is prepared for such an outcome.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf emphasised that time is running out, asserting that Lebanon and what he described as the “resistance axis” are integral to the ceasefire framework.

Araghchi also held a series of diplomatic calls with key global counterparts, including Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. During the discussion, he stated that Iran remains committed to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz under the ceasefire, provided the United States upholds its commitments.

In talks with France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, Araghchi raised concerns over alleged Israeli violations of the ceasefire and strikes in Lebanon, calling for international intervention. Barrot, in response, welcomed the ceasefire and stressed the need to halt further escalation.

Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares also weighed in, reportedly describing attacks on Iran as illegal and urging all sides to stay committed to diplomacy.

A two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States came into effect earlier this week, with peace talks expected to begin soon in Islamabad. Qalibaf is expected to lead the Iranian delegation.

However, tensions remain high. Israel has maintained that the ceasefire does not extend to the conflict in Lebanon — a claim disputed by Iran and mediator Pakistan. Within hours of the truce taking effect, Israel reportedly carried out one of its largest single-day attacks on Lebanon, resulting in heavy casualties and raising concerns over the durability of the ceasefire.

With inputs from IANS