Iran has withheld information about a Swiss citizen detained on espionage charges, leading to concerns regarding diplomatic relations. The Swiss man reportedly died in custody, and the embassy was denied access. Switzerland has demanded an investigation, citing violations of the Vienna Convention.

Iranian authorities have not provided Switzerland with information regarding a Swiss citizen who reportedly died in custody. Notably, the Swiss embassy was denied access to this detainee, which raises concerns over diplomatic rights.

The Swiss foreign ministry reported that they learned of the detention three weeks after the individual was arrested on espionage suspicions. The embassy did not receive confirmation that the detainee was Swiss until December 10. Sadly, despite being in frequent communication with Iranian officials, they faced persistent difficulty in acquiring information or access to the detainee.

According to Iranian sources, the 64-year-old Swiss man was detained in October. He allegedly committed suicide in prison on January 9, 2025, prompting Switzerland to demand a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent death.

The foreign ministry emphasized that the lack of consular access violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, a matter they have brought to the attention of Iranian authorities multiple times. The body of the deceased was returned to Switzerland on January 22.

The case of the detained Swiss citizen highlights significant diplomatic tensions between Switzerland and Iran, particularly over issues of consular access and adherence to international agreements. The Swiss government is pushing for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the individual’s death, while reiterating concerns over Iran’s handling of diplomatic protocols.

Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch