The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the charge d'affaires of the Australian Embassy to express Tehran's protest over recent sanctions imposed by Canberra on certain Iranian officials.

According to reports, the head of the Department of Asia and the Pacific at the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs convened the meeting on Wednesday to convey Iran's strong objection to Australia's decision to implement what Iran termed as "illegal and unjustified" sanctions.

During the meeting, the Iranian foreign ministry official emphasized Iran's right to retaliate against the sanctions, underscoring Tehran's discontent with Australia's actions.

In response, the Australian diplomat pledged to convey Iran's protest to Canberra promptly.

Australia's move to impose targeted sanctions on five Iranian individuals and three entities drew criticism from Iran, with Tehran condemning the action as "illegal and interventionist." The Australian government accused Iran of engaging in alleged destabilizing activities in the West Asian region.

The diplomatic exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and Australia, as Canberra's decision is seen as exacerbating diplomatic strains between the two nations. (ILKHA)