More than 150 Iranian nationals, including diplomats and their families, departed Lebanon on Saturday, March 7, following increased Israeli military activity near the Iranian embassy in Beirut, according to a senior Lebanese security source.
The departures, confirmed by both Lebanese and Iranian officials, come after Israeli airstrikes on Friday targeted an area close to the Iranian embassy, prompting concerns over the safety of Iranian personnel. A source at the Iranian embassy told Reuters the strikes directly influenced the decision for diplomats to exit. The departing Iranians were reportedly flown to Russia via a Russian aircraft, with an additional 20 having left on March 6, coinciding with the escalation of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.
Iran’s foreign ministry acknowledged the temporary departure of its nationals from Beirut, citing the deteriorating security situation. However, the ministry affirmed that the embassy would maintain normal operations and continue providing consular services to Iranian citizens remaining in Lebanon.
The recent Israeli actions follow a threat issued by an Israeli military spokesperson on March 3, warning representatives of the Iranian government still in Lebanon to “leave immediately before they are targeted.” This statement, delivered via a post on X, underscored the heightened tensions and the potential for direct confrontation.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister has reportedly requested the arrest of members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, suggesting their presence within the country, a claim that has been denied by Hezbollah. The escalating conflict has brought renewed attention to Iran’s support for Hezbollah, which initiated rocket and drone attacks against Israel on March 2, triggering a significant Israeli military response across Lebanon.
The United States has as well taken steps to reduce its diplomatic presence in Lebanon, pulling non-essential staff from its embassy in Beirut in February, amid growing concerns over regional instability. This move preceded the recent Israeli strikes and the subsequent departure of Iranian nationals.
