Lebanon didn't expel the Iranian ambassador - but gave him a slap

Lebanon has allowed former Iranian ambassador Mohammad Reza Shibani to remain in the country for an additional six months, but without immunity or diplomatic status. The move comes amid a severe diplomatic crisis between Beirut and Tehran, after Lebanon retracted its approval of his appointment and declared him persona non grata, due to Iranian statements against disarming Hezbollah.

Lebanon has allowed former Iranian ambassador Mohammad Reza Shibani to remain in the country for an additional six months, but without immunity or diplomatic status. According to the Lebanese newspaper "An-Nahar", Shibani submitted a formal request for a residence visa based on a valid Iranian passport, and the request was approved in accordance with Lebanese law. However, authorities clarified that the approval does not grant him immunity or diplomatic status. The move comes amid a severe diplomatic crisis between Beirut and Tehran. The Lebanese government retracted its approval of Shibani's appointment as Iran's ambassador and declared him persona non grata. The tension stems from statements by Iranian officials against the Lebanese government's decisions to advance the concentration of weapons in state institutions and reduce Hezbollah's independent military status. Lebanon viewed these statements as interference in its internal affairs and a violation of the country's sovereignty.