Iran Summons Australian Ambassador Over LGBTQ Photos

Iran summoned the Australian ambassador over the publication of photos from a celebration at the embassy marking Australia's LGBTQ national day. The Iranian foreign ministry called the photos insulting and against Iranian culture. The ambassador responded that no insult was intended.

Iran's foreign ministry summoned the Australian ambassador on Tuesday following the publication of LGBTQ celebration photos from the Australian embassy in Tehran. The state-run IRNA news agency reported that the ministry condemned the act as insulting and counter to Iranian and Islamic standards.

Ambassador Ian McConville was called in to explain the photos, which were posted on social media and depicted embassy staff in colorful attire celebrating Australia's national LGBTQ day on September 1. The Iranian ministry criticized the social media posts as contrary to international norms.

In response, McConville insisted that Australia meant no offense to Iran or its culture, noting there was no mention of Iran in the Instagram post. The post shared the message: "Today, and every day, we're dedicated to creating a supportive environment, where everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ youth, can feel proud to be themselves." While homosexuality is illegal in Iran, transgender people can seek gender transition surgery under a religious decree issued 30 years ago.

(With inputs from agencies.)