Iran Protests Arrest and Alleged Mistreatment of Students in Russia
Iran has officially protested to Moscow over what it called the “violent” arrest of two Iranian students at Kazan Federal University in Russia, state media reported on Saturday.
According to the IRNA news agency, the students were visiting a visa extension center at the university on Friday when they were reportedly subjected to “inhumane and unprofessional beating” by police. Iran’s consulate in Kazan intervened, and the students were released later that same day.
In response to the incident, Iran submitted a formal protest note to the Russian Foreign Ministry, condemning the treatment of the students and demanding explanations. Iran, a close ally of Russia, expressed its concern and urged accountability from the authorities involved.
Conflicting Accounts
The Kazan police provided a different version of events. In a statement on Telegram, the police reported that a physical altercation had occurred among students, prompting officers to detain “the instigators” of the fight. The police did not specify the nationality of those involved.
Additionally, the regional Investigative Committee in Kazan stated that two foreign nationals had been arrested on accusations of “using violence against a representative of the authority.”
Diplomatic Follow-Up
Tehran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn “any sort of misbehavior with Iranian students.” He called for Russian authorities to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. Jalali also noted that Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has “repeatedly” followed up on the matter with Russian officials.
Despite the close ties between Iran and Russia, the incident has sparked diplomatic tension, with Iran emphasizing the need for transparency and better treatment of its citizens abroad.
