Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

18. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the current status of the Irish diplomatic mission in Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38061/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Following the Israeli attacks on targets in Iran, including in Tehran, on 13 June, my Department assessed the safety of staff at Embassies in the region. As the conflict continued, it was decided to reduce staff numbers at the Irish Embassy in Tehran to two diplomats. On 20 June, following consultation with my officials and in close consultation and coordination with EU partners, I decided to temporarily relocate our remaining personnel from Tehran. This decision was notified to the Iranian authorities through normal diplomatic channels.The Embassy is now operating temporarily from my Department's headquarters in Dublin, from where it performs a range of functions. The Department's Consular Service is dealing directly with any consular concerns affecting Irish citizens in Iran. My Department is currently assessing when the Embassy may return to Tehran with particular reference to the security environment and the practical operating environment in-country. We remain in close contact and coordination with EU partners as we undertake this assessment. A decision will be taken on the return of our personnel to Tehran taking these factors into account.