Lebanese PM urges Iran to appoint new ambassador to Beirut

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has called on the Islamic Republic of Iran to appoint a new ambassador to Beirut, stressing his country's desire to open a new chapter and build a healthy relationship based on mutual respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. He emphasized that Lebanon is paying a heavy price and will not accept being an arena for regional conflicts.

Salam made his remarks during a meeting with Iranian official Masoud Pezeshkian in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, attended by the foreign ministers of both countries. He noted that ties between Lebanon and Iran are historic, and that Lebanese diplomacy seeks to establish a "state-to-state" framework based on shared interests and independence.

"Lebanon has paid a heavy price in terms of its security, stability, and economy, and does not wish to be a battleground for regional conflicts or a platform for exchanging messages," Salam said, wishing Iran and its people security and prosperity.

Salam's call for Tehran to appoint a new diplomat comes after Beirut's decision in March to withdraw its approval of the designated Iranian ambassador, Mohammad Reza Sheibani, declaring him persona non grata and requesting he leave Lebanese territory.