Iran Denounces Argentina's Arrest Request for Interior Minister in 1994 Buenos Aires Bombing

Iran's Foreign Ministry warns Argentina against "baseless accusations" after South American country seeks Interpol arrest of Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi in connection with deadly Jewish center bombing.

Iran has vehemently denounced Argentina's request for the arrest of Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi over his alleged involvement in the 1994 bombing of a Buenos Aires Jewish community center. Vahidi, wanted by Interpol, cut short his official visit to South Asia and returned to Tehran following Argentina's request.

Iran's Foreign Ministry, without naming Vahidi, cautioned Argentina against "making baseless accusations against citizens of other countries." The warning came a day after Argentina demanded that Pakistan arrest Vahidi based on an Interpol red notice issued against him.

Argentina's renewed push to hold Iran accountable for the 1994 bombing, the deadliest such attack in the country's history, coincides with the right-wing government led by President Javier Milei's realignment of foreign policy towards Israel, Iran's staunch enemy.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani urged Argentina "not to be influenced by those who are enemies of our bilateral relations," likely referring to Israel.

Argentina's highest court recently found the Iranian government responsible for the 1994 attack and accused former Iranian officials, including Vahidi, of involvement. The court also blamed Iran-backed Hezbollah for carrying out the bombing.

Amidst heightened tensions between Iran and the West, Argentina has escalated efforts to condemn Iran and its alleged links to overseas militant networks. Iran has consistently denied any connection to the 1994 bombing.

Vahidi's abrupt return from Pakistan sparked speculation that Argentina's request had hindered his international travel. Argentine authorities have requested Vahidi's detention and extradition to Buenos Aires, coordinating with diplomats in Pakistan and India.

Kanani denounced Argentina's request as "illegal and false" and accused the country of attempting to defame Iran. Argentina's pursuit of justice for the 1994 bombing has faced setbacks and alleged government cover-ups over the years.

As tensions mount, Iran's Foreign Ministry has conveyed its displeasure with Argentina's actions. Whether this will lead to a further deterioration in bilateral relations or a resolution of the decades-old case remains to be seen.