Iran-Saudi tensions: Lebanon PM Hariri’s resignation seen as ploy

Iran has accused Saudi Arabia, the US and Israel of trying to stoke tension in the region. The allegation follows the sudden resignation of Lebanon’s Prime Minister Saad Hariri in the Saudi capital and broadcast on state TV on Saturday.

In his announcement, Hariri cited concerns for his life and blamed Iran and its close Lebanese ally Hezbollah for meddling in Arab affairs.

Some interpreted the move as a declaration by Saudi Arabia of all-out war against Hezbollah, as the rivalry between regional powers Riyadh and Tehran increasingly plays out across the Middle East.

Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr reports from Beirut.