Beirut expels Iranian ambassador, missile lands on Lebanese coast, Israel confirms strike as regional powers warn of dangerous escalation
Tehran: In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, a missile allegedly fired from Iran struck the coast of Lebanon just hours after Beirut expelled Tehran’s envoy, triggering widespread geopolitical alarm and sharp international reactions.
According to sources cited by Iran International, the missile was not intercepted and landed along Lebanon’s coastline, contradicting earlier reports that suggested it had been neutralized mid-air. The development marks a serious escalation in regional hostilities, especially amid ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran.
Lebanon Expels Iranian Envoy, Diplomatic Ties Strained
The strike came shortly after Lebanon declared Iran’s ambassador to Beirut, Mohammad Reza Raouf Sheibani, persona non grata and ordered his expulsion. Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi confirmed that the decision had been formally communicated, with a deadline set for March 29.
In a reciprocal move, Lebanon also recalled its ambassador from Tehran for consultations, accusing Iran of violating diplomatic norms and established bilateral protocols.
Israel Confirms Missile Impact in Beirut
The Israel Defense Forces stated that, based on its assessments, a ballistic missile launched from Iran landed in Beirut around the same time as missile attacks targeting Israel. The military described the projectile as being fired by the “Iranian regime,” reinforcing concerns of a widening conflict zone.
Global Reactions Intensify
Reactions from across the region were swift and sharp. Isaac Herzog described Lebanon’s expulsion of the Iranian envoy as a “very courageous decision,” while Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar termed it “justified and necessary.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel would continue its operations against Iranian positions “with full force,” signaling no immediate de-escalation.
Diplomats from Gulf nations also issued strong warnings, reportedly calling Iran’s actions that of a “runaway horse,” and cautioning that targeting another Arab nation crosses a dangerous red line.
Hezbollah Warns of Internal Fallout
The Iran-backed group Hezbollah condemned Lebanon’s decision to expel the Iranian envoy, warning that it could undermine national unity and deepen internal divisions within the country.
Regional War Fears Mount
According to sources, since the escalation began following US and Israeli strikes earlier this month, Iran has allegedly targeted multiple countries in the region, with Lebanon now added to the list. The situation has raised fears of a multi-nation conflict spiraling out of control.
Reports indicate that Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates are growing increasingly concerned over attacks on energy infrastructure and airports, and may consider joining US- and Israeli-led actions if critical assets are targeted.
Crisis Deepens Across the Middle East
The convergence of military strikes, diplomatic expulsions, and rising regional anger underscores a rapidly deteriorating security environment in the Middle East. With multiple nations now directly or indirectly involved, the crisis appears to be entering a high-risk and unpredictable phase.
