Iran Expels Swedish Diplomat in Retaliation for Expulsion of Iranian Diplomat

Iran has expelled a Swedish diplomat as a reaction to the expulsion of an Iranian diplomat from Sweden. This decision was made following Sweden's action on Wednesday, in which an Iranian official was expelled from the country due to activities inconsistent with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

Iran's Reaction to Sweden's Action

The Iranian Foreign Ministry described Sweden's action as "unjustified" on Thursday, stating that this action is a result of the influence of the Zionist regime and an attempt to disrupt the normal activities of the Islamic Republic of Iran's embassy in Stockholm. Alireza Yousefi, Director General for Western Europe at the Iranian Foreign Ministry, expressed objections to Sweden's policies during a meeting with the Swedish ambassador in Tehran and raised issues related to "hosting anti-Iranian terrorist elements and groups."

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Iran's Retaliatory Measures

During this meeting, the Swedish ambassador was informed that a Swedish diplomat in Tehran has 48 hours to leave the country. The Iranian Foreign Ministry also reminded that Iran will take necessary actions to protect its national rights and interests, including reciprocal measures against Sweden's policies.

The Swedish Foreign Ministry had also announced on Wednesday that the Iranian diplomat was expelled due to activities inconsistent with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This convention specifies the principles and rules governing diplomatic missions. Iran also referred to Sweden's obligations under international law and warned that disrupting the duties of Iran's embassy could entail Sweden's international responsibility.

Sweden's Reasons for Expelling the Iranian Diplomat

Margot Wallström, Sweden's Foreign Minister, stated that the decision to expel the Iranian official was made to protect Swedish citizens and interests. Gunnar Strömmer, Sweden's Minister of Justice, said in an interview with the country's state television that this decision relates to Iran's alleged activities against "Jewish and Israeli interests." He added: "We know that Iran has engaged in actions for a long time that threaten Sweden's security." Strömmer also referred to Iran's use of criminal networks to achieve its goals.

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