Belgium Calls on Its Citizens to Leave Iran

The Belgian Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens not to travel to Iran and for those already in the country to leave as soon as possible. This comes after one of Belgium's citizens was sentenced to 28 years in prison under obscure circumstances.

As the below 7 Sur 7 article (translated from French by Fousesquawk) states, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been practicing hostage diplomacy since its creation in 1979. It is high time for every civilized country to isolate Iran. Belgian's move is a step in the right direction.  

 https://www.7sur7.be/belgique/la-belgique-appelle-ses-ressortissants-a-quitter-l-iran-au-plus-vite~a515e6db/

Caption below photo: Protests in Teheran via Reuters

Belgium calls on its nationals to leave Iran as soon as possible

(The Ministry) of Foreign Affairs Sunday called on Belgian citizens traveling in Iran to leave the country as soon as possible due to the risks of arbitrary detention they are exposed to in view of the deterioration in the context of security, (the Ministry) announced in a press release.

"All Belgian visitors, including bi-nationals, are exposed to an elevated risk of arrest, arbitrary detention, and unfair trial. This risk equally concerns persons simply on a tourist visit. In case of arrest or detention, respect for fundamental rights and security of persons are not guaranteed," they explained.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Belgian Embassy has only a "very limited" capacity to assure consular protection to nationals who might be arrested as well as guarantee a consular presence during a trial.

Vigilance and precautions

"Therefore, Belgian nationals, including bi-nationals, are formally advised not to travel to Iran for whatever reason. Belgian nationals who, despite this warning, are currently in Iran, are advised to exercise the greatest vigilance and take necessary measures to assure their security," the press release specifies, which advises people to avoid gatherings and to report their presence with the embassy by registering on "travelers online".

Since February 24, a Belgian humanitarian worker, Olivier Vandecasteele, has been detained in Iran in inhumane and degrading conditions. Fifteen days ago, he was been condemned to 28 years in prison for reasons that remain obscure with benefitting from a fair trial.

Since its creation in 1979, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been practicing hostage diplomacy. Several other citizens of Western countries find themselves in a situation similar to Mr. Vandecasteele.