A senior Iranian diplomat, who was previously based at the United Nations’ headquarters in Geneva, has left his post to apply for asylum in Switzerland, Iran International reported on Sunday.
The information was shared by diplomatic sources amid the wave of protests in the Islamic Republic.
Alireza Jeyrani Hokmabad was the senior Iranian official at Iran’s permanent mission to the UN in Geneva. He sought asylum in the Swiss lands not only for himself but also for his family after leaving his position, fearing danger when returning to Iran due to the current political and social situation in the country.
Jeyrani Hokmabad had, until recently, held the rank of counsellor and served as minister plenipotentiary, effectively the deputy head of Iran’s mission to the UN and other international organizations in Geneva, Iran International reported.
Swiss authorities have not publicly commented on the asylum request.
As the protests in Iran and their social consequences escalate, not only Iranian diplomatic leaders, but also the population, have started to leave the country.
Iranian citizens immigrate to Turkey
Last week, dozens of Iranians crossed the border into Turkey, as authorities in Iran cracked down on one of the biggest ever waves of protest against the Islamic Republic's clerical rule.
US President Donald Trump urged Iranians to keep protesting, saying help is on the way, as the death toll rises every week.
Iranian families and individuals arrived in Turkey's eastern province of Van through the Kapikoy border gate, pulling luggage and other belongings as they passed through and boarded vehicles heading for nearby towns.
Those asked to speak to the media declined, citing fear of repercussions in Iran upon their return.
James Genn and Reuters contributed to this report.