Iran and Sweden expel each other's diplomats

Iran and Sweden expelled each other's diplomats

Iran ordered a Swedish diplomat to leave the country. This was caused by Sweden expelling a staff member of the Iranian embassy in Stockholm.

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called Sweden's step groundless. The ministry stated that this decision was made under the influence of the Zionist regime (Israel) and was aimed at obstructing the activities of the Iranian embassy.

Alireza Yousoufi, Director General for Western Europe at the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, summoned the Swedish ambassador to Tehran. He expressed protest against Sweden hosting "terrorist" groups against Iran.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Iran will take the necessary measures to protect its national rights and interests. According to the IRNA agency, it was stated during the meeting that the Swedish diplomat was given 48 hours to leave Iran.

The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs had asked a staff member of the Iranian embassy to leave the country on September 16. The reason given for this was that the staff member had engaged in activities contrary to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reminded Sweden of its obligations under international law, including the 1961 Vienna Convention. The ministry warned that interfering with the embassy's activities places international responsibility on Sweden.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the decision to expel the Iranian official was made to protect Swedish citizens and interests.

Swedish Minister for Justice Gunnar Strömmer stated in an interview with state television that this decision was related to Iran's actions against "Jewish and Israeli interests."

"We know that Iran has for a long time carried out activities in and against Sweden that pose a security threat," Strömmer said.

He also added that Iran is using criminal networks to achieve its goals.

The Latin American nation condemned the Islamic Republic's policy and accused the country of negatively affecting international trade.