Key facts
- Peru has severed diplomatic ties with Iran.
- The decision was driven by concerns over democratic values and human rights in Iran.
- Peru cited Iran's role in escalating Middle East conflicts and obstructing the IAEA.
- The country warned of potential impacts on energy prices and global supply chains.
- Consular relations will be maintained to protect national interests.
Peru announced on Monday that it has decided to end diplomatic relations with Iran, citing concerns over the country's democratic values and its role in escalating Middle East tensions. The Peruvian foreign ministry stated that the decision reflects Lima's "historic commitment to peace" and its growing concern over "the deterioration of democratic values in Iran," including the "repression of peaceful demonstrations, the curtailment of freedom of the press, discrimination against women and girls, and the persecution of political opponents."
The ministry also issued a warning regarding potential repercussions for energy prices and global supply chains due to disruptions in international trade through the Strait of Hormuz. Peru explicitly rejected Iran's "incitement to violence and the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East, as well as its obstruction of the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)." Despite severing ties, Peru indicated that consular relations would be maintained to protect the interests and nationals of both countries.
This move follows a previous instance where Peru severed diplomatic relations with Mexico. That decision was prompted by Mexico granting asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, who faces charges related to an alleged coup attempt by former President Pedro Castillo in December 2022. Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela described Mexico's action as an "unfriendly act" and cited repeated interference in Peru's internal affairs by Mexican officials.