The UK’s ambassador to Iran was briefly detained in the capital Tehran, according to the British Foreign Office, after he was reportedly arrested during protests against the regime.
Semi-official Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Robert Macaire was arrested on Saturday for his presence at a gathering in front of Amir Kabir University.
The 53-year-old was released a few hours later, Tasnim said.
UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, “The arrest of our ambassador in Tehran without grounds or explanation is a flagrant violation of international law.
“The Iranian government is at a crossroads moment. It can continue its march towards pariah status with all the political and economic isolation that entails, or take steps to de-escalate tensions and engage in a diplomatic path forwards.”
The US called for Iran to apologise for detaining the British ambassador to Tehran.
“This violates the Vienna Convention, which the regime has a notorious history of violating. We call on the regime to formally apologize to the UK for violating his rights and to respect the rights of all diplomats,” State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus tweeted.
Confiance News gathered that protests have erupted in Tehran after Iran admitted to accidentally shooting down a Ukrainian airliner, killing all 179 people on board.
US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he was following the protests closely.
“To the brave, long-suffering people of Iran: I’ve stood with you since the beginning of my Presidency, and my Administration will continue to stand with you. We are following your protests closely, and are inspired by your courage,” Trump said.
(National)
