Peru cuts diplomatic ties with Iran over its policies — Pajhwok

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Peruvian government has criticised several of Iran’s policies and announced that it has severed diplomatic ties with Tehran, while consular relations between the two countries will continue. Iran has not yet commented on the decision but has previously rejected allegations concerning its policies. Peru’s official news agency, Andina, reported, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, that the decision was based on what Lima described as its “historic commitment to peace, respect for international law and defence of democracy.” The Peruvian Foreign Ministry said the severing of diplomatic ties would not affect consular relations and that consular services would continue in accordance with the 1963 Vienna Convention. The ministry said the decision was conveyed to Tehran through a diplomatic note delivered to the Iranian embassy in Ecuador, which also handles Iran’s diplomatic mission to Peru. It said Lima was concerned about the situation in the Middle East and its impact on international peace and security. Regarding Iran’s domestic situation, the ministry cited restrictions on peaceful protests and press freedom, the treatment of women and girls, and the treatment of political opponents as among the issues causing concern. The Peruvian government also said it had been concerned since March about disruptions to international trade through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that a continuation of the situation could affect energy…