Foreign minister Prévot summons Iranian ambassador to express Belgium's concerns
Foreign minister Maxime Prévot has on Monday summoned the Iranian ambassador to inform him of Belgium's concerns about the situation in his country. According to the minister, Belgium would also be open to new European sanctions.
“Today, I summoned the Iranian ambassador to Belgium to express our concerns and demand that the Iranian authorities fulfil their international obligations, strictly refrain from any disproportionate use of force and respond to the peaceful demands of the Iranian people,” Prévot said in a statement on Monday.
Demonstrations against the Islamic regime in Tehran have been taking place in Iran for more than two weeks. The protests are being dealt with harshly by the security forces. According to the NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR), almost 650 people have already been killed. However, the internet blockade imposed by the regime makes it particularly difficult to verify reports.
“It appears that the Iranian authorities are most likely using excessive force in dealing with the protests,” Prévot said. The minister has asked his services to be extra vigilant. “Our embassy in Tehran in particular is alert and in constant contact with our partners to monitor developments,” he added.
Prévot also indicated that Belgium is prepared to discuss additional European sanctions against the Iranian regime. The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, already indicated on Sunday that she may propose new sanctions.
Belgian foreign minister Maxime Prévot © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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