Mon Jan 13 08:23:14 UTC 2025: **UAE to Reopen Embassy in Beirut After Three-Year Closure**
BEIRUT, Lebanon – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to reopen its embassy in Beirut after a three-year closure, following a high-level delegation’s visit to Lebanon. The embassy’s closure in October 2021 stemmed from a diplomatic rift triggered by critical remarks made by Lebanon’s then-information minister regarding the Saudi-led coalition’s involvement in Yemen. The move was in alignment with a similar action taken by Saudi Arabia.
According to the UAE state news agency WAM, the delegation arrived in Beirut on Sunday, January 12th, 2025, following an agreement between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and newly elected Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to restore diplomatic ties.
Lebanon’s Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab expressed optimism regarding the reopening, stating that the UAE’s return signifies the potential for a new chapter in Lebanon-UAE relations. The reopening is expected to happen very soon. The situation has shifted significantly since the 2021 closure, with the reported deaths of Hezbollah’s top leadership and the destruction of many of its strongholds following a prolonged war with Israel.
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