WANA (Jan 08) – Amid sensitive security and political developments in Lebanon, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Beirut on Thursday, January 8, 2026, leading a high-level political and economic delegation. His two-day visit includes a dense schedule of meetings with senior political, diplomatic, and religious leaders.

 

High-Level Diplomatic and Religious Meetings

Upon his arrival, the Iranian Foreign Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Sheikh Ali al-Khatib, the Deputy Head of the Supreme Islamic Shiite Council of Lebanon. Later today, he will meet with Lebanon’s Minister of Economy and Trade, Amer Al-Bsat, to discuss bilateral economic cooperation.

 

On Friday, Araghchi will continue his official mission by meeting his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Raji. His itinerary also includes consultations with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Grand Mufti Abdul Latif Derian, Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

 

 

Tribute and Cultural Engagement

This afternoon at 4:45 PM (local time), the Iranian Foreign Minister will visit the tomb of the late Hezbollah Secretary-General, Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah, to pay his respects.

 

In addition to his political meetings, Araghchi is set to participate in a dialogue session featuring the signing ceremony of his book, The Power of Negotiation. The book details his diplomatic experiences and perspectives on managing complex political negotiations under international pressure and sanctions.

 

Timing and Regional Context

The visit coincides with a critical session of the Lebanese government. During this session, officials are reviewing the conclusion of the first phase of the Lebanese Army’s plan regarding the disarmament of the resistance south of the Litani River and the commencement of the second phase north of the river.

and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi

Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Youssef Raji, and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Social media/ WANA News Agency