Sweden expels Iranian embassy employee over alleged security threats
Stockholm has summoned Iran’s ambassador and accused Tehran of targeting Jewish and Israeli interests through criminal networks.
Sweden has expelled an employee of Iran’s embassy in Stockholm and summoned Iran’s ambassador, citing alleged security threats and conduct incompatible with diplomatic rules.
Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the decision was intended to protect Swedish citizens and Swedish interests. Authorities did not disclose the employee’s identity or the specific activities that led to the expulsion.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said Iran had allegedly conducted activities against people who oppose its government, as well as Jewish and Israeli interests in Sweden. He also accused Tehran of using criminal networks to pursue its objectives.
Jonathan Svensson, a spokesman for the Swedish Security Service, said Iran continued to pose security threats in and against Sweden, including alleged attempts to use criminal networks as proxies for attacks or violence.
The Security Service made similar accusations in 2024, when it said Iran had recruited criminal gang members for acts of violence against Israeli and other interests. Sweden also accused Iran in 2023 of hacking a local SMS operator and sending about 15,000 retaliatory messages after a Quran burning.
Sweden has not publicly provided detailed evidence supporting the latest expulsion, and Iran’s response is not included in the available material. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations sets the rules governing diplomatic conduct.
