Iran Summons Australian Diplomat Over Sanctions on Senior Officials
Tehran, The Gulf Observer: The Iranian Foreign Ministry has summoned the Australian charge d’affaires to Tehran following the imposition of sanctions by Canberra on several top officials and entities of the Islamic Republic.
On Wednesday, the Ministry summoned the Australian diplomat to formally express the strong protest of the Islamic Republic against what it described as an “irresponsible act” by Australia. The sanctions were labeled as “illegal and unjustified” by Iranian authorities.
During the meeting, the Australian diplomat was informed that the Islamic Republic reserves the right to take reciprocal actions. The diplomat assured that Iran’s stance and concerns would be communicated to the Australian government in Canberra.
This diplomatic move comes in response to the Australian government’s announcement on Tuesday of “targeted sanctions” against five senior Iranian officials and three entities. These sanctions were imposed due to what Australia termed “Iran’s destabilizing behavior” in the West Asia region.
Among those sanctioned are Defence Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani and Brigadier General Esmail Qaani, Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps’ (IRGC) Qods Force.
The situation remains tense as Iran signals potential retaliatory measures, and diplomatic communications between the two nations are ongoing. Further developments are anticipated as both countries navigate this contentious issue.
