Iran Declares Peace Deal a Victory Over the U.S.
Iran's top negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, declared on Wednesday that the agreement ending the Middle East war represents a significant defeat for the United States. Speaking about the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, Ghalibaf stated that it 'became a declaration of America's defeat,' emphasizing that security in the Middle East must be maintained by regional nations rather than external powers.
The U.S. and Iran signed the agreement last week, initiating a process toward a permanent settlement. The deal leaves Iran's system of rule intact while transforming its leadership structure. Ghalibaf's remarks came as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio began a tour of Gulf countries most affected by the conflict, aiming to sell the peace accord to regional allies.
Israel Refuses Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel will not withdraw its military forces from southern Lebanon, even if the U.S. demands it. In comments to The Times of Israel, Katz said, 'Two hundred thousand residents will not return,' referring to Lebanese civilians displaced by Israel's invasion and attacks. He argued that previous security zones with civilian populations led to roadside bombs and attacks against soldiers, so Israel will maintain its presence to prevent such threats.
Ghalibaf: Ceasefire in Lebanon Key to Agreement
Ghalibaf also highlighted that peace in Lebanon was a crucial component of the overall agreement with the U.S. 'For us, the ceasefire in Lebanon has been and is as important as the ceasefire in Iran, and the end of the war in Lebanon has been as important as the end of the war in Iran,' he said. The Islamabad understanding was finalized through Pakistan's mediation, and Ghalibaf credited the 'resistance and authority of the brave Iranian nation' for the outcome, not pressure or coercion.
IAEA to Inspect Iranian Nuclear Sites, Timing Uncertain
Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirmed that the agency will inspect nuclear sites in Iran under the terms of the memorandum, but the exact timing remains unclear. Speaking to reporters in Japan, Grossi said, 'Whether this happens the day after tomorrow or in one week or in ten days, it's important, but not essential.' He added that inspections will proceed if Iran complies with the agreement, noting the memorandum 'explicitly states that the nuclear activities... will be supervised by the IAEA.' U.S. President Donald Trump claimed Iran had agreed to inspections, though an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson denied this.
Rubio Meets UAE President, Visits Kuwait and Bahrain
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday as part of efforts to reassure Gulf allies about the Iran agreement. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the two discussed 'efforts to secure full and safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, and the importance of peace and stability in the region.' Rubio thanked the UAE for its 'courage and resilience in the face of Iran's attacks' and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to the Emirates' security. After the UAE, Rubio traveled to Kuwait and Bahrain before returning to the United States.
