Baghdad:Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry announced that Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji engaged in ‘frank discussions’ with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi during a lengthy meeting in Baghdad. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 52nd session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions between Rajji and Araghchi focused on various issues and explored ways to address outstanding matters between Lebanon and Iran. The meeting was noted for its candid nature, addressing key elements of their bilateral relations, as well as current regional developments.

The OIC session, which opened in Baghdad on Saturday, involves 55 member and observer states and is set to continue for two days. The diplomatic context is marked by a recent crisis between Beirut and Tehran. This followed Lebanon’s decision in March to withdraw approval for the accreditation of Iran’s designated ambassador, Mohammad Reza Sheibani, declaring him persona non grata due to alleged interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs. Tehran, however, rejected this decision, asserting that Sheibani would continue his duties.

The situation has stirred domestic divisions within Lebanon, with groups such as Hezbollah and the Amal Movement opposing the government’s decision. Despite these tensions, Sheibani remains in Lebanon, having secured a six-month residence permit as a civilian resident, though he has not regained his diplomatic status.