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Iranwire – Iran has summoned the Australian ambassador in Tehran following a social media post by the embassy celebrating an LGBTQ+ awareness day.
The Islamic Republic’s Foreign Ministry condemned the Instagram post as “offensive” and inconsistent with Iranian and Islamic culture.
The post, which appeared on Monday, showed Australian ambassador Ian McConville and his two colleagues wearing purple to commemorate Australia’s “Wear it Purple Day,” an event supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
The embassy’s caption read: “Celebrating ‘Wear it Purple Day’ with a splash of purple in every corner, and some delicious cupcakes made with love. Today, and every day, we’re dedicated to creating a supportive environment, where everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ youth, can feel proud to be themselves.”
Iranian officials claim the post violates international law and the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which requires respect for host country laws. Homosexuality remains illegal in Iran and it is punishable by death under sharia law.
Ambassador McConville reportedly stated that Australia had no intention to insult Iran or Iranian culture, noting the post made no specific reference to Iran. As of Wednesday, the Instagram post remains visible.
Australian Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt expressed concern over Iran’s reaction, saying, “We’re very proud about the fact that our embassies promote Australian values internationally. And I’m very concerned to see an overseas government seemingly take action against an Australian embassy that is upholding Australian values.”
