Iran raps ex-envoy house arrest in UK

Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast lashes out at Britain for the “illegal” house arrest of former Iranian Ambassador to Jordan Nasrollah Tajik, urging UK to give proper response to the issue.

British charge d’affaires to Tehran has been summoned to Iran’s Foreign Ministry to give proper explanations about Britain’s refusal to extend visa for Tajik’s family to remain in the country, Mehmanparast told reporters at his weekly press conference on Tuesday.

He added that Tajik’s house arrest runs counter to international and moral principles and stated that Iran will pursue the former envoy’s release with regard to his “physical and mental problems,”.

The Iranian spokesperson urged the immediate release of the ex-envoy, saying Britain’s refusal to extend visa for Tajik’s family will endanger his health.

The British diplomat has apparently vowed to follow up the case.

Tajik was arrested in the UK in 2006. He was accused of involvement in nuclear deals in violation of US sanctions on the Islamic Republic. The United States is pressuring British officials for Tajik’s extradition.

The Islamic Republic has repeatedly rejected allegations against Tajik and has called for his urgent release.