UK calls embassy detentions in Iran ‘unacceptable’

CORFU, Greece — Britain’s foreign secretary categorically denied Sunday that his country had helped foment postelection discontent in Iran.

David Miliband, who is on the Greek island of Corfu for a meeting of foreign ministers’ from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, condemned the detention of British Embassy employees in Iran, which he said occurred Saturday. He said Britain has protested to Iranian authorities.

He said that, of the nine people detained, four were released.

“This is harassment and intimidation of a kind which is quite unacceptable,” Miliband said. “These are hardworking diplomatic staff. The idea that the British Embassy is somehow behind the demonstrations and protests that have been taking place in Tehran. … is wholly without foundation.”

EU ministers, who held their own meeting about Iran on Corfu on Sunday afternoon, expressed support for Britain and called on Iran to respect international norms which ban harassment of diplomatic personnel.

Iranian media reported Sunday that authorities had detained eight local employees of the British Embassy in Tehran for an alleged role in postelection protests, signaling a hardening of Iran’s stance toward the West.

Miliband, who said the number was nine, said Britain’s priority is to see its staff members released, unharmed and back at work.