Iran: ‘israel’s’ breaches of the ceasefire represent a flagrant example of war crimes and violations of human rights
The spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baghaei, has condemned the latest actions of the Israeli regime, accusing it of committing a criminal act by targeting Lebanese nationals as they were making their way home following the recent implementation of a fragile ceasefire agreement.
In a statement issued on Monday, Baghaei asserted that the Israeli authorities have breached the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon multiple times over the past two months.
He stated that Israel’s recent actions, which involved targeting individuals returning home after a 60-day deadline, represent the regime’s most egregious disregard for human rights and a significant breach of its commitments.
The Iranian spokesperson highlighted that the incident represents a clear example of a war crime, attributing responsibility to the United States and France as guarantors and observers of the ceasefire agreement.
In a tragic incident on Sunday, Israeli forces reportedly fired upon Lebanese civilians as they returned to their homes in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 individuals, among them nine children and a paramedic. Additionally, 124 people sustained injuries in the violence.
Reports indicate that an Israeli drone strike targeted the village of Bani Hayyan, resulting in several residents sustaining injuries.
According to the ceasefire agreement finalized on November 27, 2024, Israeli forces are set to retreat from Lebanon, while the Lebanese army will commence deployment in the southern region of the nation. This operation is expected to be completed within a 60-day timeline, concluding on January 26.
Baghaei asserted that the ongoing presence of occupying forces in southern Lebanon effectively represents a prolonged military aggression by the regime, infringing upon Lebanon’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
An Iranian spokesperson emphasized that alongside the guarantors of the ceasefire agreement and the leadership of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), the United Nations Security Council bears a significant responsibility to implement effective measures to halt Israel’s aggressive actions and ensure accountability for its regime.
He reaffirmed Iran’s unwavering backing for the Lebanese government, citizens, and resistance in confronting the Israeli regime’s excessive demands and acts of aggression.
Baghaei praised the steadfast resistance and bravery demonstrated by the Lebanese people in the face of the occupying forces, honoring the fallen heroes of the resistance, particularly Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the martyred leader of Hezbollah.
In an official announcement made Sunday, the White House confirmed that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has been extended by approximately three weeks. This extension follows Israel’s refusal to comply with the initial terms of the agreement requiring the withdrawal of its forces.
The agreement between Lebanon and Israel has been officially confirmed to remain in effect until February 18, 2025.
