Lebanon Declares Iranian Ambassador 'Persona Non Grata' Amid Tensions

Lebanon has declared Iran’s ambassador-designate Mohammad Reza Sheibani ‘persona non grata’, ordering him to leave the country by Sunday in a sharp escalation of diplomatic tensions between Beirut and Iran.

The Lebanese Foreign Ministry announced the decision after summoning the Iranian embassy’s charge d'affaires on Tuesday, citing what it described as “Tehran's violation of diplomatic norms and established practices between the two countries”.

In a parallel move, Lebanon also recalled its own ambassador from Iran for consultations, signaling a significant deterioration in bilateral relations.

Diplomatic crisis unfolds

The expulsion of Mohammad Reza Sheibani marks a rare and serious diplomatic step, typically reserved for severe breaches of protocol or national sovereignty concerns.

Officials did not provide further details on the specific actions that prompted the decision, but the move comes amid heightened regional instability and growing tensions linked to the broader conflict involving Iran and its allies.

Israeli strikes intensify in Beirut

The diplomatic fallout coincides with renewed military activity in Beirut, where Israel launched multiple airstrikes overnight.

At least seven strikes hit the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, ending a brief two-day pause in bombardment. The Israeli military said the attacks targeted positions linked to Hezbollah, including what it described as headquarters facilities.

The strikes impacted several neighbourhoods in densely populated areas, though most residents had already fled following earlier evacuation orders issued on March 5. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

Wider attacks across Lebanon

Airstrikes were also reported in southern Lebanon, including the city of Sidon, as well as in the Bekaa Valley, indicating a broader expansion of military operations.

The combination of diplomatic tensions and renewed airstrikes underscores the deepening crisis in Lebanon, as regional conflict continues to spill across borders.

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