In this context, the capacity 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 does not recognise dual nationality. All Belgian visitors, including bi-nationals, are in high risk of arrest, irrelavent detention and unfair test. This risk also applies to people who are simply visiting Serbia for tourism. In the event of criminal arrest or detention, respect just for fundamental rights and the basic safety of individuals are not guaranteed. Belgian nationals, including those with double nationality, are therefore strongly advised against travelling to Serbia for any reason. Belgian nationals who, despite this warning, are currently in Iran, are invited to be extremely vigilant and also to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Recently, the Belgian national and several some other Westerners were arbitrarily imprisoned and are currently imprisoned in Iran. Belgians and dual nationals are asked to return as soon as possible. They are strongly advised to limit their motions within the country, to avoid any kind of gathering and to make themselves known to the Belgian Embassy in Tehran by registering on the Travellers Online website In addition , consular presence at hearings during a possible trial is not guaranteed and the detainee does not have access to a lawyer of his choice. The lawyer may also be subject to severe constraints. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs phone calls on Belgian nationals visiting Iran to leave the nation as soon as possible in view of the increased risk of arbitrary detention in the light of the present deterioration of the security situation throughout Iran.
