Lebanon expels Iranian ambassador amid escalating regional tensions

Lebanon has expelled Iran’s ambassador and declared him persona non grata, ordering his departure by 29 March, as tensions surge across the Middle East following intensifying cross-border violence.

Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Reza Shibani must leave the country by the end of the week, citing what it described as violations by Tehran of established diplomatic norms and protocols between the two countries.

In a reciprocal move, Beirut also recalled its ambassador to Iran, Ahmad Sweidan, for consultations, signalling a sharp deterioration in diplomatic ties.

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The decision comes against the backdrop of escalating hostilities in the region. Israel has carried out extensive airstrikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon since a cross-border attack by Iran-backed Hezbollah on 2 March.

Lebanese authorities say at least 1,039 people have been killed and 2,876 injured in Israeli attacks since the escalation began.

The crisis has unfolded alongside a broader regional conflict involving Iran. A joint U.S.–Israeli offensive on Iranian targets since 28 February has reportedly killed more than 1,340 people, according to available figures.

Tehran has responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel as well as Jordan, Iraq and Gulf states, which it says are aimed at U.S. military assets.

Lebanon’s move to expel the Iranian envoy marks a significant diplomatic escalation, raising concerns over further instability in an already volatile region.

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