Sweden Expels Iranian Embassy Employee Over Security Threats
Sweden expelled an Iranian embassy worker for diplomatic violations, as Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer cited threats against Jewish and Israeli interests.
Sweden ordered the expulsion of an Iranian embassy employee in Stockholm on Thursday after determining the individual engaged in activities incompatible with diplomatic status. Iranian Ambassador Hojatollah Faghani was summoned to the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs to be informed of the decision, according to the Swedish government and public broadcaster SVT.
Government Statements and Security Concerns
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard stated that the measure was necessary to protect national security. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer explicitly linked the decision to ongoing Iranian operations targeting dissidents and Jewish or Israeli interests within the country.
"Iran has long conducted activities that threaten security in and against Sweden, targeting regime opponents as well as various Jewish and Israeli interests," said Gunnar Strömmer.
Role of Criminal Networks
Swedish authorities emphasized that foreign intelligence agencies frequently utilize local criminal syndicates as proxies for violent operations. The Swedish Security Service (SÄPO) confirmed that multiple targeted attacks linked to Iranian intelligence had been successfully thwarted in recent years, though specific details regarding the expelled diplomat's exact role were withheld.
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Iranian embassy employee ordered to leave Sweden.
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Ambassador Hojatollah Faghani summoned by the Foreign Ministry.
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SÄPO reports thwarted plots involving criminal networks.
