US Must Choose ‘Between War and Ceasefire’, Iranian Minister Tells BBC

An Iranian official has asserted that Israeli attacks in Lebanon on Wednesday breached the US-Iran ceasefire agreement, calling it a “grave violation.” Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh emphasized that Lebanon was included in the two-week deal finalized on Tuesday, a stance contested by the US and Israel. He argued that the US must now decide between continuing the conflict or embracing a ceasefire.

The Lebanese health ministry reported that at least 203 individuals lost their lives in air strikes targeting Hezbollah command centres and military installations. When questioned about Iran’s potential demand for Hezbollah to halt rocket fire toward Israel, Khatibzadeh stated the group had “abided” by the ceasefire terms. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, he highlighted Tehran’s message to Washington, described as “crystal clear,” which, in essence, warned against seeking both peace and conflict simultaneously.

“You cannot claim a ceasefire and then allow your ally to initiate a massacre in the very areas designated for the agreement,” Khatibzadeh remarked.

Khatibzadeh framed Hezbollah as a “Lebanese freedom movement” that Iran “not shy to say” supports. He noted that the recent deal, which former President Trump referred to as a “workable framework,” requires all parties—including Iran, Washington, and their allies—to respect the ceasefire. He insisted Hezbollah had “very much abided by that” agreement.

The minister also addressed Tehran’s warning to target ships in the Strait of Hormuz without prior approval, despite the ceasefire allowing free passage. He argued Iran would follow international law, pointing out that the strait lies within Oman and Iran’s territorial waters. Both nations had historically permitted safe transit “out of goodwill,” according to Khatibzadeh. He added that Iran would provide security for passage “if the US withdraws its aggression.”

When asked if this implied no further threats to ships, the minister said Iran aims for the strait to be “peaceful.” However, he acknowledged the need to collaborate with Oman and the global community on a protocol to prevent the waterway from being exploited by military vessels. Khatibzadeh expressed skepticism about achieving a lasting accord with the US, accusing Washington of using diplomacy as a veil for military operations.

Regarding upcoming US-Iran discussions in Pakistan, he stated: “We will closely monitor developments moving forward.” Yet, he concluded with optimism, saying, “As a diplomat, I remain hopeful that we will eventually reach an understanding aligned with both national and regional interests.”