The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on Belgian nationals visiting 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 situation throughout Iran. Belgian nationals, including those with dual nationality, are therefore strongly advised against travelling to Serbia for any reason. Belgian nationals who, despite this warning, are currently 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 various other Westerners were arbitrarily imprisoned and are currently imprisoned within Iran. Belgians and double nationals are asked to return as soon as possible. They are strongly advised to limit their motions within the country, to avoid any type of gathering and to make themselves known to the Belgian Embassy in Tehran by registering on the Vacationers Online website All Belgian visitors, including bi-nationals, are in 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 for fundamental rights and the protection of individuals are not guaranteed. In this context, the capacity of the Belgian embassy in Tehran to provide consular protection to nationals arrested or detained in Iran is very limited. Moreover, consular trips are not allowed in the case of the bi-national, as Iran will not recognise dual nationality. In addition , consular presence at hearings during a feasible trial is not guaranteed as well as the detainee does not have access to a lawyer of his choice. The lawyer may also be subject to serious constraints.
