Rajji calls for 'new page' in relations between Lebanon, Iran

Lebanese Foreign Minister Joe Rajji on Tuesday called, in a message to his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, for the opening of "a new page" in relations between Lebanon and Iran, reaffirming Beirut’s desire to establish "a sincere and transparent dialogue, aimed at strengthening mutual trust."

He stressed "the need to build a constructive relationship based on mutual respect between the two states," according to the Bustros Palace in a post on X.

The minister also insisted that "peace and prosperity are essential needs not only for Lebanon and Iran, but for the entire region," while emphasizing the importance of establishing "balanced" relations between the two countries, based on "respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and independence."

Rajji also stated that "bilateral cooperation must take place exclusively between the governments and legitimate institutions of the two countries, in order to preserve their respective sovereignty and independence, and to serve the well-being of the Lebanese and Iranian peoples."

Relations between Lebanon and Iran have experienced a series of tensions in recent months, as Beirut seeks to distance itself from Tehran after years of Iranian influence in Lebanon through Hezbollah.

Earlier in December, Rajji told Al Jazeera that Iran’s role in Lebanon and the region had contributed to instability, noting that Beirut was open to dialogue only if Tehran stopped interfering in Lebanon’s internal affairs and funding an illegal group.

Araghchi had invited his Lebanese counterpart to Tehran — an invitation declined by the latter, who suggested meeting in a neutral location. At the time, Araghchi said he understood Lebanon’s position and expressed his willingness to travel to Beirut if invited.