Albania: Authorities expel all Iranian diplomats and embassy staff as of Sep. 7

Event

As of Sept. 7, the Albanian government has severed diplomatic ties with Iran and ordered all Iranian diplomats and embassy staff to leave the country within 24 hours. Authorities in Tirana have stated the decision comes in response to an alleged Iranian cyberattack on government infrastructure, reportedly aimed at paralyzing public services and stealing government data. It remains unclear whether foreign businesses were targeted during the alleged cyberattack.

Retaliatory diplomatic actions against Albania are possible. Further Iranian-backed cyber attacks against Albanian infrastructure may occur in the medium term.

Context

The cyber attack took place on July 15, several days ahead of the Free Iran World Summit (FIWS) scheduled to occur near Durres, Albania, July 23-24. The FIWS was organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and the People’s Mujahedin Organization of Iran (MEK), which advocate for overthrowing the Islamic Republic of Iran. Its organizers canceled the FIWS amid security concerns. The alleged cyberattack is likely connected to the FIWS.

The Iranian government classifies the MEK as a terrorist organization and has reportedly blacklisted several dozen US officials for allegedly supporting the group. An estimated 3,000 members of the MEK are living in exile in Albania. Albanian police have claimed to have thwarted Iranian attacks targeting the exiled dissidents in recent years.

Advice

Reconfirm appointments at the Iranian Embassy in Tirana. Contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for information concerning alternative arrangements for consular services to Iranian nationals in Albania and persons seeking to travel between Albania and Iran.