Published: 10:31, October 6, 2024 | Updated: 12:44, October 6, 2024
Iran backs ceasefire in Gaza, Lebanon, warns of stronger retaliation against Israel
By Xinhua

This handout picture released by the Syrian Presidency Telegram page shows Syria's President Bashar al-Assad (right) meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Damascus on October 5, 2024. (HANDOUT / SYRIAN PRESIDENCY TELEGRAM PAGE VIA AFP)

DAMASCUS / TEHERAN - Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said in Damascus on Saturday that Iran supports a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and warned  Israel that it would respond proportionately to any attacks, and if necessary, with greater force.

In a press conference wrapping up his one-day visit to Syria, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to standing by the "resistance" against Israel, noting that the country will continue its aid and coordination with Syria to support displaced Lebanese refugees.

"There are two urgent issues on our agenda: addressing the needs of Lebanese refugees and securing a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon," Araghchi said. He added that Iran has already sent humanitarian aid to Syria to help the Lebanese refugees in Syria, with more expected to arrive soon.

On the possibility of an Israeli attack on Iran, Araghchi warned, "Our response to any Israeli strike will be proportional, and even stronger if necessary. We have demonstrated this in the past, and they are welcome to test our resolve again."

Araghchi mentioned that regional and international initiatives for a ceasefire are currently under discussion but refrained from providing specific details. He stressed that any ceasefire conditions must be acceptable to both Palestinians and Lebanese.

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When asked about Iran's relationship with Syria, Araghchi highlighted the deep-rooted strategic partnership between the two nations, and emphasized that Iran's support for Syria will continue under all circumstances.

During the visit, the Iranian foreign minister also held meetings with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali, during which they discussed cooperation to secure humanitarian assistance to Lebanese families fleeing the Israeli military assault in Lebanon.

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian military official warned that any "unconsidered action" by Israel would provoke a "harsh and destructive" response from Iran, semi-official Mehr news agency reported on Saturday.

Chief Commander of the Iranian Army Abdolrahim Mousavi said Iran has shown patience in the face of Israel's "hostile" actions but is prepared to deliver a "precise and destructive" blow at the appropriate time, according to Mehr.

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"If the enemy makes any mistake, the level of our response will be higher than the previous attack," Mousavi said earlier this week, responding to Israeli threats of retaliation.

Iran launched approximately 180 missiles at Israeli targets on Tuesday, claiming it was in response to Israel's alleged assassinations of several high-profile figures, including Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, and a senior Iranian military commander. Iran also cited Israel's intensified military actions against Lebanese and Palestinians as a reason for the attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday that Iran "made a big mistake" and "will pay for it."