Iran and Syria have denounced Israel’s offer of a conditional withdrawal from southern Lebanon as a conspiracy to stir up tension in the region.
In a statement issued at the end of a visit by the Syrian vice-president, Abd al-Halim Khaddam, to Tehran, the two countries reiterated their support for Lebanon’s opposition to the Israeli proposal.
Earlier, Mr Khaddam held talks with the Iranian President, Mohammad Khatami, who called on Islamic countries to unite in cooperation against Israel.
Mr Khaddam is also reported to have invited President Khatami to visit Damascus.