Iran has summoned the Swedish ambassador in response to remarks by Education Minister Johan Pehrson, who labeled Iran as a rogue state and sponsor of terrorism. The Iranian Foreign Ministry expressed strong disapproval, warning that such comments could damage diplomatic relations and emphasized Iran’s resistance to foreign interference in its legal matters.
Tehran has summoned the Swedish ambassador following remarks made by Sweden’s Minister of Education, Johan Pehrson, which Iran deemed “provocative and baseless.” On Monday, Mattias Otterstedt, the Swedish diplomat, was formally protested to at the Iranian Foreign Ministry by Shahram Qazizadeh, who expressed disapproval of Pehrson referring to Iran as a “rogue state” and “a sponsor of terrorism.”
Qazizadeh characterized Pehrson’s comments as “unfounded, interventionist, and a violation of international norms,” criticizing the Swedish government for repeatedly making groundless accusations against Iran. He cautioned that such rhetoric could exacerbate diplomatic tensions between the countries.
Pehrson’s statements were prompted by an Expressen report claiming that an Iranian student at Lund University had past affiliations with Iran’s intelligence services, which Iran firmly rejects, asserting this narrative is part of a Western agenda to undermine its global standing.
Additionally, Qazizadeh condemned Sweden for recently summoning Iran’s ambassador in Stockholm regarding the case of Ahmadreza Jalali, who is serving time in Iran on espionage charges for Israel. He noted that Sweden should not intrude in Iran’s judicial matters, emphasizing the sanctity of legal proceedings.
He stated, “The Swedish government is in no position to challenge the legal decisions of another country or advocate for individuals whose crimes have been established through due process.”
In summary, Iran’s summoning of the Swedish ambassador reflects deepening tensions over remarks made by Minister Johan Pehrson, branding Iran as a rogue state. The incident emphasizes Iran’s rejection of foreign interference in its judicial system and highlights ongoing friction between Sweden and Iran regarding accusations of terrorism and espionage. Both nations must navigate these diplomatic strains carefully to avoid further deterioration of their relationship.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
