Iran Applauds Ceasefire in Lebanon Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions.

Beirut: The Iranian Foreign Ministry has expressed approval of the cessation of hostilities by the Israeli regime in Lebanon, reiterating its steadfast support for the Lebanese government, people, and resistance. In an official statement released on Wednesday morning, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei underscored Iran's enduring stance on the urgent need for an immediate end to conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon. He also outlined Iran's diplomatic endeavors over the last 14 months aimed at reaching this objective. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Baqaei attributed the extensive casualties and destruction in the region to the Zionist regime's aggressive actions, which he claimed were backed by the United States and certain European nations. He reported that these actions have led to the deaths of 60,000 people, 120,000 injuries, the displacement of over 3.5 million individuals in Palestine and Lebanon, and significant damage to the essential infrastructure in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. Baqaei also referenced interim orders from the International Court of Justice demanding a halt to genocide and the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants for Zionist leaders accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity. He highlighted the global public's demand for an end to the conflict and genocide over the past 14 months, emphasizing a growing expectation for the prosecution and punishment of Israeli regime officials. Further, Baqaei stressed the international community's duty to maintain peace and stability in West Asia and to apply effective pressure on the Zionist regime to end its military actions against Gaza. The ceasefire between the Israeli regime and Hezbollah, which commenced at 4 am local time in Lebanon (02:00 GMT) on Wednesday, is seen as an opportunity for a lasting cessation of Israeli attacks on Lebanese areas, potentially concluding more than a year of hostilities in southern Lebanon. As the ceasefire remains in effect, the Lebanese army has announced its readiness to advanc e into the southern regions of the country and fulfill its obligations under UN Resolution 1701.