Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei explained Australia’s decision to downgrade diplomatic relations as “unfair” and said, “We do not welcome diplomatic relations.
Baghaei stressed that in line with diplomatic protocols, Iran responded to Australia’s moves by lowering the level of Australia’s diplomatic representation in Tehran. He confirmed that the measure coincides with the Australian ambassador’s exit from Iran.
Despite diplomatic restrictions, Baghey pointed out that the Iranian consular department in Canberra is open, emphasizing that the embassy is striving to provide the necessary consular services to Iranian citizens living in Australia.
He also dismissed anti-Semitism allegations against Iran, calling them “silly and unfounded.”
On the early August 26th, the Australian Prime Minister argued that Tehran was involved in two anti-Semitic attacks in Australia, and ordered Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadegi in Canberra to leave the country with three other Iranian diplomats within seven days.
Canberra also urged Australian citizens living in Iran to halt embassy operations in Tehran and depart as soon as possible if conditions are permitted.
MNA/