Saudi Arabia Reopens Doors to Lebanese Imports After 5 Years

WHO:

AP News - Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, George Kordahi, Hezbollah

WHAT:

AP News - Saudi Arabia lifted a five-year ban on Lebanese imports.

ABC News - The ban was initially imposed on Lebanese fruits and vegetables in 2021 due to drug smuggling concerns.

AP News - Over 5 million pills of the amphetamine drug Captagon were seized hidden in a shipment of pomegranates from Lebanon.

ABC News - The ban was later extended to all Lebanese products.

AP News - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated the decision “will contribute tangibly to reviving the national economy and providing support to broad segments of Lebanese producers and exporters.”

WHERE:

AP News - Saudi Arabia, Lebanon

WHY:

AP News - The ban was rooted in Saudi Arabia's regional rivalry with Iran and concerns over Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon.

ABC News - The ban was also a response to comments made by Lebanon's then-Information Minister George Kordahi regarding Saudi Arabia's actions in Yemen.

HOW:

AP News - The reversal of the ban was ordered by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a result of “positive steps taken by the Lebanese state.”

ABC News - The Lebanese government announced plans to disarm all non-state groups, including Hezbollah.

(UPDATED June 11, 2026 19:55 UTC)

Saudi Arabia has lifted a five-year ban on Lebanese imports, a decision ordered by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman following what he described as “positive steps taken by the Lebanese state.” The ban, which was initially imposed in 2021 due to drug smuggling concerns after over 5 million pills of the amphetamine Captagon were seized in a shipment of pomegranates, had later been extended to all Lebanese products. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the reversal, stating it will significantly aid in reviving the national economy and support Lebanese producers and exporters.