Iran summons Saudi ambassador over executions of Iranian nationals

Iran's foreign ministry summoned the Saudi Arabian ambassador on Wednesday in response to the execution of six Iranian citizens convicted of drug smuggling.

Read more: Saudi Arabia executes six Iranians accused of drug trafficking

The ministry issued a formal statement condemning the executions as “unacceptable” and a breach of international legal standards, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP).

The Saudi Interior Ministry confirmed the executions, stating that the individuals were put to death in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. They were found guilty of smuggling cannabis into the country.

Saudi security forces arrested the suspects, leading to an investigation that resulted in charges being filed against them. A specialized court ultimately convicted them and imposed death sentences.

The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that the sentences were upheld following appeals and a review by the Supreme Court. Following this process, a royal decree was issued to carry out the executions, prompting Iran's protest.