Russian ambassador in Tehran Levan Jagaryan
A tweet by the Russian embassy in Tehran in reaction to US President Joe Biden’s congratulatory message for Noruz (Nowruz) has led to controversy.
Khabar Online, a leading news website in Tehran, ran an article about a tweet by the Russian embassy on Tuesday, calling it an epitome of “interference in the diplomatic affairs of the host country by ambassadors”.
Describing it as a violation of international norms and protocols, the article echoed similar sentiments by many Iranian social media users who urged an official reaction by the Iranian foreign ministry.
Reacting to Biden’s message, the Russian embassy described it as hypocritical that Washington imposes sanction on the Islamic Republic but congratulates the Noruz.
“Those who for a long time have been imposing illegal unilateral sanctions against Iran and exerting economic pressure on this country cynically congratulate on Nowruz”, the post said, adding that “We consider this the height of hypocrisy!”
However, President Biden – as well as Secretary of State Antony Blinken -- made no mention of Iran or the aspirations of Iranians in their Noruz messages, unlike their predecessors.
“Jill and I want to extend our best wishes to all who are celebrating Nowruz around the world. The Nowruz holiday means gathering at the Nowruz table to give thanks for loved ones, reflect on your blessings, and welcome all the possibilities of a new season”, read the message.
In recent weeks Russia’s prominent role in the Vienna nuclear negotiations has led to controversy in Iran, as many have said Moscow is using the talks to secure its own interests.