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British ambassador to Iran arrested at protest in Tehran

12 January 2020 09:34 am - 6     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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iran-ambassador.pngThe UK ambassador to Iran was arrested during anti-government protests in Tehran after officials admitted shooting down a passenger plane.

Rob Macaire was held for three hours, in what the UK described as a "flagrant violation of international law".

It is understood he was attending a vigil for those who died in the crash, which turned into a protest.

He left to make his way back to the UK embassy, but was arrested as he stopped at a barber shop for a haircut.

In a statement, 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 cross-roads moment. It can continue its march towards pariah status with all the political and economic isolation that entails, or take steps to deescalate tensions and engage in a diplomatic path forwards."

The Iranian Etemad newspaper shared a picture of the ambassador on Twitter after the Tasnim news agency reported his arrest.

Iranian media claimed Mr Macaire was accused of inciting anti-government protests.

Iran has said Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 was shot down due to "human error" and there were demonstrations in Tehran and other cities on Saturday as people gathered to commemorate those who died.

Earlier, the UK prime minister said Iran's admission was an "important first step" and called for an investigation into the "tragic accident".(BBC)


  Comments - 6

  • Anmanpan Sunday, 12 January 2020 09:44 AM

    It is time for the international community to black list Iran and apply drastic sanction such as export of crude.

    Velayan Sunday, 12 January 2020 10:10 AM

    SL also can fall into a state where the international community can isolate it for becoming a pariah state. Better watch ourselves.

    S.P.RAMKUMAR Sunday, 12 January 2020 10:14 AM

    Recent actions are leading to diplomatic disrespects. On the diplomatic visit Iranian commander was killed by US President order. Now on Duty British Ambassador was arrested by Iran. Paradigm is changed by War interested countries. World is going into Dark ages.

    Raj J Sunday, 12 January 2020 10:41 AM

    British Ambassador should protest at American

    Andrew Silva Sunday, 12 January 2020 11:49 AM

    It appears no country understands what deplomacy is. Looks like countries prefer dark ages.

    Senn Monday, 13 January 2020 01:04 PM

    Swiss ambassador in Srilanka is much luckier to be in Sri lanka,why,though got caught red handed,only shame.


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