EU demands release of British embassy staff in Iran
The Foreign Office is yet to confirm the reports
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Sunday, 28, Jun 2009 11:17
The European Union has demanded the release of eight British embassy staff arrested in Tehran.
EU ministers meeting in Greece have demanded the immediate release of the British staff, who have been accused of being involved in the recent riots.
Iran's supreme leader has previously accused Britain of interfering in the country's politics after mass protests erupted after the re-election of president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad two weeks ago.
Last week, Britain expelled two Iranian diplomats in response to Iran's expulsion of two envoys.
UK foreign secretary David Miliband said: "The idea that the British Embassy is somehow behind the demonstrations and protests that have been taking place in Tehran in recent weeks is wholly without foundation."
EU ministers added in a statement: "Harassment or intimidation of foreign or Iranian staff working in embassies will be met with a strong and collective EU response."
The news was first reported by Iran's Fars news agency.