FDFA temporarily closing embassy in Iran

Switzerland is following the escalation between Israel and Iran that began on 13 June with grave concern. The situation is highly unstable and there is a risk of further escalation and even greater violence. To ensure the safety of its staff, the FDFA has decided to temporarily close the Swiss embassy in Tehran. On 17 June, five expatriate staff and their partners left for Turkmenistan; the remaining seven staff members, including Ambassador Nadine Olivieri Lozano, have now also left overland and will arrive in Azerbaijan this evening. They will subsequently travel to Switzerland and will remain on stand-by to return to Tehran as soon as the situation allows. The FDFA is also in close contact with local staff who can no longer travel to the Swiss embassy for security reasons.

Both the US and Iran have been informed of the embassy's temporary closure and departure of its expatriate staff. Switzerland will continue to act as an intermediary transmitting communications between the US and Iran as and when both parties consider appropriate. The protecting power mandate can be fulfilled regardless of location. On behalf of the US authorities, the FDFA is continuing to keep US citizens in Iran informed of the risks and measures to be taken via the Foreign Interests Section website.

Head of the FDFA Ignazio Cassis informed the Federal Council this morning of the temporary closure of the embassy in Tehran. Switzerland reiterates its call on all parties for strict compliance with international law. The current escalation is not in the interests of any of the parties and there is an urgent need to return to the path of dialogue. The FDFA is ready to offer its good offices in this regard.

Address for enquiries:

FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 kommunikation@eda.admin.ch