Iran expels a Swedish diplomat after a similar measure announced by Stockholm

Iran decided on Thursday to expel, within 48 hours, a Swedish diplomat stationed in Tehran, in response to a measure taken by Sweden the previous day against an Iranian diplomat. The decision deepens tensions between the two countries, amid allegations of activities incompatible with the provisions of the Vienna Convention.

Sweden’s ambassador was summoned to Iran’s Foreign Ministry, where authorities in Tehran described the expulsion of the Iranian diplomat as “unjustified and contrary to international law.” Iran also rejected the Swedish allegations, describing them as unfounded.

Stockholm announced on Wednesday that it had summoned Iran’s ambassador and ordered the expulsion of one of the diplomatic mission’s employees. Swedish authorities did not disclose the person’s identity or the exact reason for the decision.

Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer said that Iran has been conducting activities in Sweden and against Iranian dissidents, as well as Jewish and Israeli interests, for some time. According to the official, criminal networks are allegedly involved in these actions.

Bilateral relations have been tense for several years. In May 2024, Swedish intelligence services accused Iran of recruiting gang members to carry out acts of violence against Israel. Tehran rejected the allegations. The disputes also include the cases of Swedish citizens of Iranian origin who have been convicted or imprisoned in Iran.