Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced on Monday that its ambassador to Beirut, Mohammad Reza Sheibani, will continue his duties despite a recent decision by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs to revoke his accreditation and declare him persona non grata.
Last week, Lebanese authorities formally withdrew recognition of the Iranian envoy and instructed him to leave the country by Sunday, March 29. However, Tehran has signaled it does not intend to comply with the directive, setting the stage for a potential diplomatic standoff between the two nations.
According to an Iranian diplomatic source cited by Agence France-Presse, the ambassador will remain in Lebanon even after the expiration of the deadline. The decision, the source said, reflects internal Lebanese political dynamics, particularly the stance of Nabih Berri and the influence of Hezb-ollah, both of whom reportedly opposed the expulsion.
Hezb-ollah had earlier urged Lebanese officials to immediately reverse the decision, adding further pressure on the government. The unfolding situation highlights growing tensions within Lebanon’s political landscape, as well as the broader regional implications of strained Iranian-Lebanese relations.
