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

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.