The Iranian side does not consider Azerbaijan's decision a friendly gesture

The Iranian side does not view this decision by Azerbaijan as a friendly gesture. This was stated by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, while commenting on reports that 14 Iranian citizens had been declared "personae non grata" in Azerbaijan.

He stated that Iran does not consider Azerbaijan's decision "a friendly gesture."

"In general, declaring 14 Iranian citizens persona non grata makes no sense. Because none of these individuals are diplomats, nor have they been on the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan. However, this is not a friendly move," Baghaei emphasized.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced that an official protest had been lodged with the Azerbaijani side over the matter.

"We have openly expressed our protest. Azerbaijan's ambassador to Tehran was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and our protest was conveyed to him. We will continue to take the steps we deem necessary and provide information about them," he added.

Recall that on November 3, 14 Iranian citizens were declared "personae non grata" in Azerbaijan.