Iran travel warning: Australians at ‘high risk’ of detention, arrest after expulsion of Iranian Ambassador
An urgent warning has been issued for Australians in Iran as officials from the Australian Embassy in Tehran have been directed to depart the Middle Eastern country.
“We continue to advise do not travel to Iran,” an update on the Smartraveller website reads.
“If you’re in Iran, you should strongly consider leaving as soon as possible, if it is safe to do so.”
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Foreigners in Iran, including Australians and dual Australian-Iranian nationals, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest.”
The Australian Embassy in the capital of Tehran has suspended operations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed all diplomats are now safe in a third country.
“Our ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is extremely limited. We can’t guarantee access to consular services or legal representation if you’re detained or arrested,” the advice statement continued.
It comes amid a volatile regional security situation as Australian authorities found Iran’s Ambassador to Canberra, Ahmad Sadeghi, coordinated the firebombing of a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne late last year.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong says “Iran’s actions are completely unacceptable”.
She said Iran’s ambassador to Australia had been served a “persona non grata” as well as three other Iranian officials.
“They’ll have seven days to leave the country,” Senator Wong said.
“This is the first time in the postwar period that Australia has expelled an ambassador.
“Iran has sought to undermine the cohesion of our community. We have long known that Iran and its proxies try to destabilise countries in our region and beyond.
“The Government has now taken the step to withdraw our ambassador to Iran and we have suspended the operations of our embassy in Iran.”
Australians in need of consular assistance should call the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
Visit Smartraveller for the latest updates.
