Asiri: We are Seriously Dealing with Assassination Threats

Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Ali Awadh Asiri stressed that the kingdom's embassy in Lebanon is coordinating with Lebanese security agencies to “determine the seriousness” of the recent allegations of assassination threats.

He told the Saudi Okaz newspaper Sunday: “Threats against me, any member of the diplomatic mission, or Saudi expatriates are taken seriously.”

He added that all members of the mission are carrying out their duties in a normal manner, saying that the Lebanese security authorities have bolstered the security measures at the Saudi embassy in Beirut.

The members of the mission have been offered additional protection near their residences, Asiri revealed.

British media reports said earlier this week that the ambassadors of Saudi Arabia and Qatar may be the target of assassinations in order to create sedition.

Interior Minister Nouhad al-Mashnouq stressed Saturday that the government will provide the necessary security for the ambassadors and their embassies in light of reports.