On Monday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Nasser Kanaani revealed Iran’s “strong intention to forge official diplomatic ties with Libya” during a press briefing.
Kanaani underscored Libya’s significance to Iran, stating that an ambassador had already been selected. This marks a critical step in the ongoing process of formalising relations between the two nations.
“The administrative procedures necessary for the ambassador’s appointment are currently in progress. Iran anticipates the realisation of official relations with Libya in the near future,” Kanaani communicated to the press.
Libya and Iran have had a complex relationship that has seen significant fluctuations over the years, largely shaped by regional dynamics, ideological considerations, and international pressures.
In March, the Libyan Foreign Ministry announced that efforts are underway to resume the work of the Iranian Embassy in Tripoli.
This came in a meeting between Al-Mangoush and Iran’s ambassador to Libya, Mohamed Reza to strengthen bilateral relations. They discussed the activation of the joint economic committee and arrangements for the reopening of the Iranian Embassy.
The meeting tackled regional and international developments. Al-Mangoush noted that Libya welcomed the reestablishment of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, saying the agreement they reached last week will be “significant for the stability of the region.”
The Iranian Embassy in Tripoli closed its doors in the wake of the February 2011 revolution, following remarks by former mufti Sadiq Al-Ghariani who accused Tehran of “spreading Shiism in Libya.”
In February 2015, the residence of the Iranian Ambassador was attacked by a car bomb. IS claimed responsibility for the attack, which did not leave significant damage.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations, each backed by rogue militias and foreign governments.
