Iran summoned the British ambassador in response to baseless accusations of interference by UK officials. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the claims, warning they would heighten distrust. Iranian officials criticized the UK’s historical interference and vowed to hold accountable any government making unjust accusations. This diplomatic dispute coincides with new UK security measures targeting Iran.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has summoned British Ambassador Hugo Shorter in response to unfounded accusations by British officials regarding Iran’s interference in the UK’s internal matters. Alireza Yousefi, Assistant to the Foreign Minister, expressed Iran’s strong objection to these claims during the meeting, denouncing them as “biased and baseless.” He emphasized these allegations contradict established international law and diplomatic norms, predicting they would exacerbate distrust toward British policies in the region.
Yousefi called for the UK to reconsider its “unconstructive approach” and to adopt a more balanced diplomatic stance. In response, Ambassador Shorter acknowledged the concerns and promised to relay them to the UK government. This diplomatic tension arises amid Britain’s recent security measures aimed at scrutinizing Iran for supposed hostilities within the UK.
Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the UK government’s stance as hypocritical, stating, “It is absurd to blame Iran for something you excel in and master: illegal interference in other nations’ internal affairs!” He highlighted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s silence on Israel’s actions in Gaza and referenced the historical 1953 coup against Iran’s government as examples of Britain’s problematic role in Iranian affairs.
Baqaei asserted that Iran would no longer tolerate baseless accusations or hostile actions without consequences, noting, “This is no longer the 19th century.” He warned that any nation making unfounded claims against Iran would be held accountable. This diplomatic dispute coincides with UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis’s recent announcement of heightened scrutiny on Iran’s government and its security apparatus under a new foreign influence registration scheme.
Many Iranians regard these actions as politically motivated and reminiscent of Britain’s historical interference in Iranian politics. The tensions stem from a complex past, especially regarding the Great Famine of 1917–1919, which resulted in the deaths of millions of Iranians, exacerbated by British occupation during World War I, despite Iran’s declared neutrality.
In summary, the Iranian government has formally protested against accusations from British officials regarding its alleged internal interference. The diplomatic tensions reflect deep-rooted historical grievances and suggest that Iran is firm in its stance against perceived injustices. The Iranian officials emphasize a need for accountability concerning past and present actions, warning that any continued hostility will not be tolerated.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
