In addition , consular existence at hearings during a possible trial is not guaranteed and the detainee does not have access to an attorney of his choice. The particular lawyer may also be subject to severe constraints. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs phone calls on Belgian nationals going to Iran to leave the country as soon as possible in view of the increased risk of arbitrary detention in the light of the present deterioration of the security circumstance throughout Iran. All Belgian visitors, including bi-nationals, are at high risk of arrest, arbitrary detention and unfair demo. This risk also pertains to people who are simply visiting Iran for tourism. In the event of arrest or detention, respect meant for fundamental rights and the basic safety of individuals are not guaranteed. Belgian nationals, including those with dual nationality, are therefore highly advised against travelling to Iran for any reason. Belgian nationals who, despite this warning, are in Iran, are asked to be extremely vigilant and to take the necessary precautions to make sure their safety. Recently, the Belgian national and several various other Westerners were arbitrarily imprisoned and are currently imprisoned within Iran. Belgians and dual nationals are asked to return as soon as possible. They are strongly recommended to limit their movements within the country, to avoid any type of gathering and to make them selves known to the Belgian Embassy in Tehran by enrolling on the Travellers Online website In this context, the capability of the Belgian embassy within Tehran to provide consular security to nationals arrested or detained in Iran is extremely limited. Moreover, consular appointments are not allowed in the case of a bi-national, as Iran will not recognise dual nationality.
