WANA (May 19) – In response to the suspicious arrest of several Iranian nationals in the United Kingdom and the baseless allegations made against them and the Islamic Republic, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the UK’s chargé d’affaires in Tehran on Sunday, May 18, in the absence of the British ambassador.

 

Shahram Ghazizadeh, Director General for Western Europe at the Foreign Ministry, formally summoned the British diplomat and conveyed Iran’s strong protest over the arrests and the unfounded accusations against the Iranian government.

 

During the meeting, Ghazizadeh called on the British government to provide a clear explanation and legal basis for the detentions.

 

He condemned the actions as a violation of international norms, particularly criticizing the UK for failing to notify Iran in a timely manner, denying consular access, and withholding support from Iranian citizens.

 

Emphasizing Iran’s commitment to respecting local laws in other countries, Ghazizadeh described the UK’s conduct as inconsistent with established principles of international law and human rights.

 

He urged the UK to comply with its international obligations, including those outlined in the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

 

He further warned that the consequences of such politically motivated actions—which he said appear aimed at exerting pressure on Iran—would rest solely with the British government.