Iran Denies Plot to Assassinate Israeli Ambassador in Mexico

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei dismissed accusations from the United States and Israel that the country was plotting to assassinate Israel's ambassador to Mexico. Baghaei made the statement during a weekly news conference in Tehran on October 28, 2024, where he described the allegations as "ridiculous" and an attempt by Israel to damage Iran's friendly relations with other countries. According to unnamed US and Israeli senior officials, the Quds Force, the external operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), had plotted to assassinate Israeli envoy Einat Kranz Neiger beginning in late 2024 and remaining active into mid-2025. The officials claimed that the plot was a serious threat to the safety of the ambassador and the Israeli community in Mexico. Baghaei rejected the allegations, saying, "These claims are baseless and absurd. We believe that Israel is trying to damage our friendly relations with other countries through such ridiculous allegations." He added that Iran has always maintained good relations with Mexico and other countries in the region and has no intention of harming them. The allegations against Iran come at a time of heightened tensions between the country and Israel. The two nations have a long history of conflict, and the recent accusations have added to the already strained relations. Iran has been accused of supporting militant groups in the region, while Israel has been critical of Iran's nuclear program and its involvement in regional conflicts. The US and Israeli governments have not provided any evidence to support the allegations, and it remains unclear whether the plot was ever a serious threat. However, the accusations have sparked concerns about the safety of diplomats and the potential for further escalation in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, Iran's Foreign Ministry has called on the international community to reject the baseless allegations and to work towards de-escalating tensions in the region. The Mexican government has also issued a statement denying any involvement in the alleged plot and expressing its commitment to maintaining good relations with both Iran and Israel. The current status of the situation remains unclear, with no further developments reported in recent days. However, the incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel and the need for caution and diplomacy in the region.