Israel launched an airstrike on Beirut on Tuesday while top leaders of the regional militant groups supported by Iran, known as the “axis of resistance,” were in Tehran for Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian’s inauguration ceremony. The strike targeted a Hezbollah commander, raising concerns of a potential war between Israel and Hezbollah.
Reactions to the Attack
The Iranian embassy in Beirut condemned the attack as “cowardly and criminal,” denouncing it as a violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty. Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanaani, strongly condemned the strike and warned of the right of Hezbollah and Lebanon to retaliate against Israel. He also held Israel and the U.S. responsible for the possibility of a wider regional conflict.
Challenges for Iran’s New President
The threat of a regional war poses a significant challenge for President Pezeshkian early in his term. Iran has historically avoided direct conflict while supporting militant groups across the region that engage with Israel from various fronts.
Inauguration Ceremony Highlights
Despite the focus on domestic politics, this year’s inauguration ceremony in Iran highlighted the country’s pivotal role in shaping events in the Middle East through its influence over militant groups. During the ceremony, President Pezeshkian, a heart surgeon and self-proclaimed reformer, emphasized Iran’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.
