Iran Summons British Ambassador Over Allegations of Security Threat
Iran summoned British Ambassador Hugo Shorter in response to unfounded accusations by UK officials regarding Iran’s interference in internal affairs. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned these allegations as biased and baseless, warning they could deepen distrust. The tensions are further aggravated by recent UK security measures targeting Iran. Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the UK’s stance and historical actions, asserting that Iran would not tolerate such claims without consequence.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has summoned the British ambassador in Tehran, Hugo Shorter, in response to allegations from British officials regarding Iran’s interference in internal UK affairs. Alireza Yousefi, the Assistant to the Foreign Minister, formally expressed Iran’s strong objections during the diplomatic meeting, labeling the accusations as “biased and baseless.” He emphasized that such claims undermine international law and could further erode trust between Iran and the UK.
Yousefi urged the UK government to abandon its “unconstructive approach” and adopt a more balanced diplomatic stance. Ambassador Shorter acknowledged Iran’s concerns, pledging to communicate them to the UK government. This diplomatic incident coincides with new UK security measures aimed at imposing greater scrutiny on Iran amid allegations of hostile activities.
Additionally, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the UK for its perceived hypocrisy, asserting that accusations of interference are unfounded, particularly given Britain’s own historical actions. Baqaei pointedly referred to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s remarks regarding Israel and highlighted the UK’s past involvement in the 1953 Iranian coup that led to the overthrow of democratically elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh.
He cautioned that Iran would not tolerate accusations without consequences, stating, “This is no longer the 19th century,” and emphasizing accountability for hostile actions against Iran. The recent tensions also relate to remarks made by UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis about an enhanced tier of scrutiny on Iranian influence in the UK.
Iran maintains that these accusations are politically motivated, viewing them as a continuation of a historical pattern of British interference in Iranian affairs. The strained relations between Iran and Britain are exacerbated by a long-standing history, including the consequences of the Great Famine and Genocide of 1917–1919, which many Iranians attribute to British actions during World War I, resulting in the deaths of millions.
The diplomatic rift between Iran and the United Kingdom highlights the longstanding tensions rooted in historical grievances and current political conflicts. Iran’s firm stance against allegations of interference underscores the significant distrust in bilateral relations. As both nations navigate this delicate situation, the call for a reassessment of diplomatic practices may lead to shifts in their interactions in the future.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com