Seyed M. Marandi: Hezbollah Rejects Israel Deal; Beirut Erupts - Iran Strikes Bahrain in Retaliation

Professor Marandi discusses the recent attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran, controlling the strait, intercepted ships that did not follow designated routes. This led to an American attack on Siryak in southern Iran, which Iran retaliated against by using drones on targets in Bahrain. Marandi explains that Iran is enforcing its regulations in the Strait of Hormuz to reflect the US's compliance with their ceasefire agreement. He highlights that Iran's actions are a response to the US undermining the agreement, particularly regarding Omani declarations for ship routes, which Iran views as an attempt to undermine its control.

Marandi criticizes the Lebanese government's deal with Israel, stating that the Lebanese President and Prime Minister, whom he describes as US agents, lack popular mandate and are acting against Lebanese law. He views the deal as a betrayal of Lebanon, especially given Israel's continued occupation of Lebanese territories. Marandi emphasizes that this deal undermines the axis of resistance and legitimizes Israeli actions, which he believes aids Israel's long-term goal of retaining control over Lebanese territory.

Marandi addresses criticisms of Iran's current geopolitical stance. He explains Iran's strategic use of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage against the US, emphasizing that Iran enforces strict regulations in response to the US not upholding its end of a broader agreement. He argues that Iran's objective is to create a divide between the US and Israel, especially regarding economic implications, by maintaining pressure through the Strait of Hormuz. He also defends Iran's need to export oil to support its economy and resistance movements in the region.

Marandi comments on reports of the US considering relocating its Gulf bases further west, possibly to Jordan or Israel, due to the effectiveness of Iranian drone and missile capabilities. He notes that Iran is engaged in individual negotiations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and some, like Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, and Qatar, have shifted their policies, leading to them not being targeted by Iran. He believes that the US will eventually have to leave its bases in the region, as they are no longer defensible and GCC countries are realizing the harm of cooperating with the US against Iran.

Marandi refers to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's comments about European participation in attacks against Iran, highlighting the deepening problems between Iran and Europe. He argues that Europe's involvement, driven by a desire to appease the US, has weakened its own position, particularly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and its economic consequences. Marandi suggests that Europe's 'garden' is falling apart due to its foolish policies and complicity in conflicts, diminishing its relevance to Iran.

Marandi discusses the situation in Yemen and the potential for cooperation between Iran and Saudi Arabia. He emphasizes that Yemen's developed missile and drone capabilities give it significant leverage against Saudi Arabia, which has a more vulnerable infrastructure. He suggests that a smart approach for Saudi Arabia would be to seriously engage with Yemen and find a solution, rather than continuing military conflict that could result in significant losses for the Saudis.

Marandi acknowledges a UN report detailing atrocities against Palestinian children in Gaza, including deliberate shootings, severe injuries, and high rates of amputations. He expresses that while the report confirms what many have known for years, its delayed issuance highlights the UN's previous reluctance to address the situation. Marandi concludes that public awareness has significantly increased globally, forcing even institutions like the UN and some Western officials to critically address Israel's actions, demonstrating an irreversible shift in global perception.