In addition , consular presence at hearings during a probable trial is not guaranteed and the detainee does not have access to a lawyer of his choice. The particular lawyer may also be subject to serious constraints. All Belgian visitors, including bi-nationals, are in high risk of arrest, arbitrary detention and unfair test. This risk also pertains to people who are simply visiting Iran for tourism. In the event of police arrest or detention, respect meant for fundamental rights and the basic safety of individuals are not guaranteed. In this context, the capability of the Belgian embassy in Tehran to provide consular protection 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. Belgian nationals, including those with dual nationality, are therefore highly advised against travelling to Serbia for any reason. Belgian nationals who, despite this warning, are in Iran, are asked to be extremely vigilant and also to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Recently, a Belgian national and several additional 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 suggested to limit their motions within the country, to avoid any kind of gathering and to make by themselves known to the Belgian Embassy in Tehran by signing up on the Vacationers Online website The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on Belgian nationals going to Iran to leave the nation as soon as possible in view of the increased risk of arbitrary detention in the light of the current deterioration of the security circumstance throughout Iran.
