Lebanon Extends Iranian Ambassador's Stay Despite Previous Expulsion Order

Lebanon has faced sharp criticism after deciding to extend the stay of Iran's ambassador in Beirut, Mohammad Reza Shibani, despite previously declaring him persona non grata and demanding his departure. Several months ago, the Lebanese Foreign Ministry announced that Shibani, appointed as Iran's new ambassador to Lebanon, was unwelcome due to his interference in Lebanon's internal affairs. He was given a few days to leave but refused, backed by Hezbollah. The issue remained unresolved until yesterday, when his diplomatic visa expired. However, Lebanon chose to extend his stay for another six months, this time as a private citizen rather than an official ambassador.

Opponents of Hezbollah in Lebanon view this move as a way to allow Shibani to remain and continue advancing Iranian interests without officially holding the ambassadorial title. A Lebanese political figure from the anti-Hezbollah camp stated that President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Najib Mikati "were frightened and succumbed to Iranian pressure." This is despite the initial decision to expel Shibani being made by Foreign Minister Joseph Aoun in coordination with the president and prime minister. The source criticized the Lebanese leadership for becoming a government that makes decisions "on paper" but fails to implement them, warning that this development is a "bad omen for the future."