As the region experiences a new wave of violence, the unaccredited Iranian ambassador in Beirut quietly receives visitors. Although considered persona non grata since March, there is no indication that he is about to leave Lebanon. On the contrary, sources at the embassy say Mohammad Reza Shibani is still there and intends to stay.Embassy sources do not seem particularly concerned about Shibani's status. The diplomat has previously served as Iran's ambassador to Lebanon, as well as to Syria and Saudi Arabia.Today, after the crisis over the ambassador's credentials, both the Lebanese and Iranian sides appear to have decided to let the situation cool while maintaining minimal contact, according to diplomatic sources at the embassy. This was especially true during the recent wave of violence and the negotiations in Switzerland...
As the region experiences a new wave of violence, the unaccredited Iranian ambassador in Beirut quietly receives visitors. Although considered persona non grata since March, there is no indication that he is about to leave Lebanon. On the contrary, sources at the embassy say Mohammad Reza Shibani is still there and intends to stay.Embassy sources do not seem particularly concerned about Shibani's status. The diplomat has previously served as Iran's ambassador to Lebanon, as well as to Syria and Saudi Arabia.Today, after the crisis over the ambassador's credentials, both the Lebanese and Iranian sides appear to have decided to let the situation cool while maintaining minimal contact, according to diplomatic sources at the embassy. This was especially true during the recent wave of violence and the negotiations in Switzerland...
