Lebanon Extends Iranian Ambassador's Visa Despite Declaring Him Persona Non Grata

Lebanon has extended the visa of Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Reza Shibani by six months, despite previously declaring him persona non grata and demanding his departure from Beirut. Shibani's original visa expired yesterday, but he remains in Lebanon with a new residency permit after his diplomatic status was revoked. This move follows his refusal to leave the country six months ago, supported by Hezbollah.

A Lebanese political source opposed to Hezbollah told Kan News that President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who coordinated the decision to declare Shibani unwelcome, "were frightened and succumbed to Iranian pressure." The source criticized the Lebanese leadership for adopting policies only on paper without enforcement, warning this signals troubling prospects ahead.

Last week, Shiite cleric Sheikh Mohammad Al-Fuani, a Hezbollah critic, condemned the group on Kan News, accusing it of bringing destruction to Lebanon and fostering hatred. He accused Hezbollah of hypocrisy, preaching morality while failing to uphold its promises. Al-Fuani also blamed Iran for manipulating vulnerable supporters into fighting and dying, leaving grieving families resentful toward Hezbollah.

In related regional developments, a Syrian source expressed concern over escalating attacks in Damascus, while Kurdish officials reported Turkish advances in northern Syria.