Tensions Rise: Saudi Arabia Executes Six Iranians for Drug Smuggling

Saudi Arabia executed six Iranian nationals for drug smuggling, sparking Tehran to summon the Saudi ambassador in protest. The executions have raised tensions between the two countries after they re-established relations in 2023 via a Chinese-brokered deal aimed at ensuring regional stability.

Saudi Arabia has carried out the execution of six Iranian nationals found guilty of drug smuggling, according to a report by the state news agency SPA on Wednesday. This event has led Iran to summon the Saudi ambassador, as reported by Tehran's media outlets.

The Saudi interior ministry revealed that the executed individuals were arrested and charged with smuggling hashish into the kingdom. However, the report did not specify the exact date when the executions took place.

In retaliation, Tehran conveyed a strong protest to the Saudi envoy, criticizing the move as incompatible with the nations' judicial cooperation, a sentiment echoed by Iranian media. This incident comes in the wake of a 2023 Chinese-brokered agreement that restored relations between Tehran and Riyadh, aiming to foster regional stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)