Argentina has expelled Mohsen Soltani Tehrani, Iran's chargé d’affaires in Buenos Aires, declaring him persona non grata and ordering him to leave within 48 hours, according to reports from El Financiero and the Buenos Aires Times. This diplomatic action follows Tehran's objections to Argentina's designation of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, which Argentina's new president Javier Milei supports.
The expulsions come amid rising tensions over Argentina's characterization of the IRGC and Tehran's accusations linking President Milei to military attacks. La Jornada notes that the Argentine government responded firmly to Iran's protests by swiftly declaring Tehrani persona non grata. The move underscores Argentina’s departure from its previous diplomatic approach toward Iran.
Iranian envoy Mohsen Soltani Tehrani criticized the decision, stating to local media that it does not benefit Argentina's national interests, the Buenos Aires Times reports. Tehran has also been under scrutiny for its perceived lack of cooperation in the investigation into the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, a factor that contributed to the diplomatic strain mentioned by the Times of Israel.
This development reflects Argentina’s alignment with the United States and Israel in condemning Iran’s regional activities, a stance signaled by Milei's administration, as El Financiero highlights. The expulsion could lead to further diplomatic confrontations between the two countries, complicating Argentina's foreign relations in the Middle East.
Observers should watch for Iran's next official response and any possible retaliatory measures. The evolving stance of Argentina’s government toward Iran will also be pivotal in shaping bilateral ties and regional alliances going forward.
Mohsen Tehrani
Mohsen Soltani Tehrani
Argentina
Iran
Javier Milei
