Lebanon seeks 'new chapter' with Iran, prime minister says

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said on Sunday that Lebanon wants a new chapter in relations with Iran based on mutual respect and non-interference. In an interview with Lebanese broadcaster NBN, Salam stated that he had accepted a meeting requested by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, saying: "We do not interfere in Iran's affairs." He said Lebanon would prefer Iran to appoint a new ambassador, noting that the current envoy's residence permit had been renewed for three months "as a citizen" but not in his previous diplomatic capacity. Salam also said Lebanon cannot "sit and wait" for a settlement between the US and Iran. "If it happens, that's good. And if it doesn't happen, are we to remain sitting and waiting?" he said. "The state cannot remain in a state of waiting. We must head south and to all regions and bear our responsibilities." He added that "not a day passes" without Lebanon reaffirming its demand for a full Israeli withdrawal, along with an end to Israeli attacks, a firmer ceasefire and the release of prisoners.