Homosexuality is illegal in Iran, but transgender people are allowed to seek gender transition surgery.
ADVERTISEMENTIran has summoned the Australian ambassador in Tehran over the publication of a “disrespectful” photo from a celebration in the embassy to mark Australia’s LGBTQ national day, posted on the embassy’s Instagram page.
The state-run IRNA news agency said the foreign ministry summoned Ian McConville and condemned the publication of photos on social media, calling it insulting and contrary to Iranian and Islamic culture, as well as international norms.
The photo, showing McConville and his colleagues wearing purple outfits, was posted to commemorate ‘Wear it Purple Day’ in Australia, to celebrate allyship with the LGBTQ+ community.
The 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.”
The IRNA report said the post contravened international law and the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations, mandating respect for the host country’s laws and regulations.
Homosexuality is illegal in Iran, but under a religious decree issued 30 years ago, transgender people are allowed to seek gender transition surgery.
In response, McConville said that his country had not insulted Iran or Iranian culture, adding there was no reference to Iran in the post.
Australia’s federal workplace relations minister, Murray Watt, said he was “concerned to see this reaction from the Iranian government to the activities of the Australian embassy”.
“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.”