Lebanon has accused Iran of inserting Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps operatives into the country under the cover of diplomatic activity, according to reports published amid ongoing U.S.-facilitated talks between Israel and Lebanon.
The accusation comes as Washington hosted two days of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese officials aimed at extending a ceasefire and advancing broader security discussions along the shared border.
According to the U.S. State Department, the April 16 cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon will be extended by 45 days following what officials described as highly productive talks.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said political negotiations are expected to resume on June 2 and June 3, while a separate security track involving military delegations from both countries is set to begin at the Pentagon on May 29.
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U.S. officials said the goal of the talks is to support lasting peace, mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and improved security along the Israel-Lebanon border.
The latest diplomatic push comes as Lebanon faces growing pressure to confront Iranian influence inside the country, especially through Hezbollah and alleged IRGC-linked activity.
Reports said Lebanon accused Iran of violating diplomatic norms and using diplomatic cover to support operations involving the IRGC, a force closely tied to Tehran’s regional strategy and support for armed groups across the Middle East.
The issue adds another layer of tension to already fragile negotiations involving Israel, Lebanon and the United States.
Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, has long been a central flashpoint in Lebanon’s relationship with Israel and remains a major security concern for both Israeli officials and Western governments.
The U.S.-facilitated talks are expected to focus heavily on border security, Hezbollah’s military presence and steps aimed at preventing renewed fighting after months of regional escalation.
Although the ceasefire extension is being viewed as a positive development, officials remain cautious as both sides continue accusing Iranian-backed forces of destabilizing the border region.
The situation remains highly sensitive, with Washington attempting to keep diplomatic channels open while pressuring Iran-linked groups to reduce military activity in Lebanon.
On May 14 and 15, the United States hosted two days of highly-productive talks between Israel and Lebanon. The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress. The State Department will reconvene the political track of negotiations on June… pic.twitter.com/Dcs9NJDdN5
— Tommy Pigott (@statedeptspox) May 15, 2026
