CAIRO – Dr. Ali Larijani’s visit to Iraq and Lebanon as secretary to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council is important for regional politics, especially following Israel’s recent military retreat against Iran.
Iran is strengthening its ties with major groups, such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah and various militias in Iraq, demanding resistance against the US and Israel to reduce the power of these groups. Iran historically used this influence to counter Western control, with Hezbollah’s large rocket arsenal serving as a deterrent against Israeli attacks. Larijani’s diplomatic efforts underscore Iran’s commitment to building a united front to resist disarmament pressure using the Iraqi political system and Lebanese resistance groups.
Furthermore, the interaction of Larijani in Baghdad and Beirut illustrates Iran’s long-term plan to maintain a unified front, particularly after Israel’s recent operational failure. The visit is a time when Western efforts aim to undermine Iranian-aligned groups through initiatives such as the integration of Iraqi militias and the implementation of UN resolutions. However, Iran’s support for these groups ensures their continued resilience. Larijani’s trip shows that attempts to disarm resistance could disrupt regional stability and present a dilemma for the US and Israel.
Important visits to Iraq and Lebanon
Larijani’s recent visit to Iraq and Lebanon highlights Iran’s strategic solidarity with the regional resistance movement. Imam Hussein’s presence in the Arabs (AS) highlighted the similarities between the historical martialism of the prophet’s grandson and the current atrocities of Gaza, reinforced Iran’s ideological stance on oppression. In Iraq, Larijani’s mission was to counter the pressure to disarm us and Israeli resistance. His subsequent engagement in Lebanon further highlighted Iran’s opposition to external interference, particularly by the United States and its allies, in regional sovereignty.
Larijani vehemently rejected us, demanding that Israel be abandoned the arms of the region, describing such a proposal as a direct attack on national sovereignty. Israel has been struggling with a recent defeat against Iran and demanding a ceasefire has boosted Tehran’s position. Statistics from regional conflicts reveal that the resistance effectively defeats Israeli attacks, and that the 2006 victory in 2006 serves as a precedent. Larijani’s rhetoric resonates with experts who recognize Iran’s role as a breakwater against Western hegemony in Western Asia.
During meetings with Lebanese leaders, Congress leader Nabi Beli, President Joseph Own and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Larijani denounced Israel and its Western supporters against destabilizing Lebanon and supported Iran’s policy of non-interference. Reports show that over 1,000 Israeli violations in Lebanon’s airspace since 2024 highlight a persistent threat. By alienating Iran from the issues of internal Lebanon, Larijani attempted to focus his attention on external invaders and strengthen Tehran’s narrative of resistance to foreign rule.
An interview with Al-Mayadeen with Larijani’s message
In an interview with Al Mayaden, Larijani touted Iran’s regional influence and cited the 12-day victory over Israel as evidence of military and ideological resilience. Analysts note that Tehran’s alliance network (invasions of Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen) effectively countered the US and Israeli rule. According to a 2025 survey, 80% of Iranians support the government’s resistance policy, so Larijani emphasized domestic unity as a responsibilities to Trump’s disinformation campaign.
Larijani denounced the US and Europe for advocating disarmament while arming Israel. His critique resonates with experts who view Western policies as perpetuating regional instability. By describing resistance as self-defense, he positioned Iran as a moral authority over the imposition of the neocolonies.
Bilateral relations in Iran
Regional and non-regional relations in Iran were another focus of security officials’ remarks. Larijani emphasized the juxtaposition of Iran’s Russia with China as a counterweight to our hegemony. The 2024 joint military exercise and the $400 billion worth of energy trade exemplify this tripartite cooperation. For experts, this axis represents the monopolar domination that challenges the multipolar world order that is emerging as a vital player in which Iran is 1999.
Also, praised Iran and Egypt’s relations, Larijani dismissed bilateral tensions as a product of US interference rather than essential discord. Historic trade data shows a 30% increase in unauthorized exchanges since 2023, indicating thawing connections. His call for Arab and Islamic unity on Israel is consistent with expert arguments that collective action is essential to resolve the Gaza crisis and Western influence.
Concluding his remarks, Rarijani urged Israel and its supporters to stand up to Arab-Islamic solidarity, citing the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza as a mobilizing point. With more than 60,000 Palestinian victims since 2023, his appeal for unified action underscored the urgency of coordinated resistance. Experts agree that only collective rebellion can dismantle oppressive structures and achieve lasting justice.
While Larijani’s message was persuasive, Gassan Bin Zidou’s style of mitigating debate sparked criticism of the old-fashioned approach reminiscent of his time at Al Jazeera. Experts say having a neutral moderator, such as “Mohammed Jaladi,” would have raised the level of debate. This reflects broader concerns about media objectivity in shaping geopolitical narratives.
Ahmed Moustafa, Director of Research and Translation, Center for Asian Studies