Twenty-two countries, including the United States, Canada, and several European nations, have jointly issued a stern warning to Iran, demanding an immediate end to what they describe as lethal plotting and other malign actions against individuals on their soil. The collective statement, released on Thursday, underscores a unified stance against Tehran's alleged involvement in orchestrating attacks targeting Iranian dissidents, journalists, and Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide.
Joint Statement Condemns Iran's Actions
The countries expressed grave concern over Iran's security services, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Quds Force, which they accused of engaging in attempts to kill, kidnap, harass, intimidate, or otherwise attack people within their borders. The statement emphasized that such actions undermine national sovereignty and international norms, calling for an immediate cessation. The signatories affirmed their unity in protecting their nations and people from these threats.
Allegations of Criminal Gang Involvement
Iran's security services were condemned for their deplorable use of international and local criminal gangs to carry out plots in Europe, North America, and Australia. The statement specifically highlighted the activities of the Iran-linked group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI), which has claimed responsibility for attacks targeting Jewish communities in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. These attacks include the stabbing of two Jewish men and a series of arson attacks on synagogues and community sites in north London.
Australia's Response and Sanctions
Australia has taken significant steps in response to Iran's alleged activities. In August last year, Australia expelled Iran's ambassador, accusing Tehran of directing antisemitic attacks, including an arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne and the torching of a kosher cafe in Sydney. Canberra also withdrew its ambassador from Iran and suspended embassy operations. In November, Australia designated the IRGC as a state sponsor of terrorism, describing the alleged attacks as unprecedented and dangerous acts of aggression orchestrated by a foreign nation on Australian soil. Iran's foreign ministry responded by calling Australia's decision an insulting and unjustified act that violated international rules and norms.
List of Signatory Countries
The joint statement was issued by the following 22 countries: Albania, Australia, Belgium, Britain, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, and the United States. These nations have called on Iran to halt its actions immediately and have vowed to protect their countries and people from such threats.
