WANA (Nov 17) – Ali Larijani’s recent trip to Syria and Lebanon carried strategic messages that go beyond regular diplomatic discussions. This choice was made at a time when regional tensions are at their peak, and Iran is facing numerous challenges in both foreign and domestic policies. But why was Larijani chosen for this mission, and what message lies behind this decision?

 

One of the most significant aspects of choosing Ali Larijani for this trip is to emphasize the sovereign role of the Islamic Republic of Iran in regional decision-making.

 

His presence, as a senior advisor to Ayatollah Khamenei, in Damascus and Beirut, accompanied by messages from Iran’s leadership, conveyed that Iran’s decisions regarding regional issues, such as Israeli aggressions and the crises in Syria and Lebanon, are made at the sovereign level. These decisions are based on high-level consensus and long-term strategic interests, not merely governmental policies.

 

This trip also sent a multilayered message to international actors. The choice of a figure like Larijani, who previously played a key role in complex negotiations such as Iran’s nuclear file, demonstrated that Tehran is prepared to approach regional issues strategically.

 

 

This action also served as a response to European threats and the potential issuance of a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors. Through this trip, Iran made it clear that it would not back down under political and media pressures and would remain committed to its principled policies.

 

During this trip, Larijani held meetings with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, focusing on the following points:

 

1. Strengthening cooperation with the resistance axis: In his meetings, Larijani emphasized Iran’s unconditional support for resistance against Israeli aggressions, not only militarily but also politically and diplomatically.

 

2. Correcting international perceptions: Emphasizing that Iran seeks stability and security in the region, this trip was an attempt to address misunderstandings about Iran’s foreign policy goals.

 

Iran has sought to show that its actions are solely aimed at defending the rights of oppressed nations, particularly the Palestinian and Lebanese people, with no other interests at stake. Such a stance, especially at a time when Israeli aggressions are escalating, can be seen as a smart approach to strengthen regional solidarity and reduce misunderstandings.

 

 

From a timing perspective, this trip, conducted on Thursday, November 14, was no coincidence. November 14 reminds Israel of the eight-day war it launched against Palestinian resistance in 2014, which eventually forced it to accept the resistance’s conditions for a ceasefire. At that time, Tel Aviv believed it should first resolve the situation in Syria before turning its attention to Palestine.

 

That year, Syria was under immense pressure, and from Tel Aviv’s perspective, the Syrian regime was unlikely to survive more than a few months. However, Syria successfully overcame the crisis, a feat made possible by the full support of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

 

During this trip, while Israeli drones were flying over Beirut, Larijani walked in an open space with an Al-Mayadeen reporter. Some social media users jokingly remarked, “Larijani’s message to Netanyahu was delivered yesterday,” referring to what he said in his interview with Al-Mayadeen: “Israel has nothing of its own. Netanyahu depends on the U.S. for everything. He is like someone trying to marry with borrowed tools.”

 

Ali Larijani’s trip to Syria and Lebanon can be seen as a smart move to deliver political and strategic messages to regional and international players. Larijani was sent by the highest authority in the country, the Supreme Leader, which signifies the high level of these negotiations.

 

Naturally, what he says carries a weight that differs from the words of the foreign minister or parliament speaker. His mission clearly reflects the Supreme Leader’s goal of ending these genocidal acts.