Spat Detrimental for Kuwait

A lawmaker said Kuwait’s decision to reduce Iran’s diplomatic staff in the Arab kingdom would damage its own interests.

Mohammad Javad Jamali, a member of Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, made the statement in a talk with ISNA on Thursday.

“Kuwait needs a powerful neighbor likes Iran and it cannot escape realities. It should be aware that the move will harm its interests,” he warned.

Kuwait informed Iran on July 20 that it should send back home 15 out of 19 its diplomats stationed in the country within 45 days, for its alleged support for a “terrorist cell” disbanded in the monarchy in 2015.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the allegations and responded to the measure by summoning the Kuwaiti charge d’affaires.

However, it said Iran will maintain contacts with Kuwait and its embassy in the southern Arab neighboring state will continue to work at the ambassador level.

The move was unusual for Kuwait, which has traditionally maintained positive relations with Iran.