The United States removed two members of Iran’s UN delegation from New York on Friday and Saturday, days after the conclusion of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), following their failure to comply with an order to leave the country by Monday, September 29. A State Department official stated that the diplomats were expelled after the US confirmed their continued presence in New York on Friday, despite directives to depart. The official added that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had emphasized enforcement, stating: 'Secretary Rubio means business.'
Two members of the Iranian delegation were found still in New York long after the United Nations General Assembly had passed. They have now been kicked out of the US.
Timeline of Events
- Monday, September 22: Iranian diplomats were instructed to leave the US by the end of the UNGA meetings.
- Friday, September 26: One delegation member departed New York.
- Friday night/Saturday morning: US officials confirmed the remaining two diplomats had not left and were subsequently removed.
- Saturday, October 3: The State Department publicly confirmed the expulsions.
Iranian Response
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi disputed the US account, asserting in a Sunday post on X that all Iranian diplomats had left as scheduled, except one who departed earlier. Araghchi stated: 'Taking pride in fake diplomat 'expulsion' is inappropriate for the head of any diplomatic corps. It oozes of desperation and defeat, and is inconsistent with UN host nation obligations.'
Broader Context
The expulsions follow heightened tensions between the US and Iran, including restrictions on Iranian participation in international events. In July, the US denied visas to nearly a dozen members of Iran’s delegation for the FIFA World Cup, forcing the team to relocate its base from Arizona to Mexico. Former President Donald Trump had warned the Iranian team against attending, citing safety concerns.
During the UNGA, US President Donald Trump rejected a proposal from Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, though he indicated talks could resume in the coming days. Iran’s state news agency IRNA later reported that no further direct negotiations with Washington were scheduled.
Diplomatic and Legal Framework
Under the UN Headquarters Agreement, host nations like the US are obligated to facilitate diplomatic activities, but they retain the authority to enforce visa and residency terms. The expulsions reflect a broader pattern of limited diplomatic engagement between the two countries amid ongoing disputes.