Why it matters:
The execution sends a strong message about how Iran handles violent breaches of diplomatic premises, particularly in light of regional sensitivities. By acting swiftly and publicizing the personal motive behind the attack, Iranian authorities also sought to distance the act from broader political or state-driven intentions—especially amid past tensions with Baku.
What he’s saying:
In his initial confession, the attacker claimed he believed his wife was inside the Azerbaijani Embassy and refusing to return home. “I thought she was hiding there and didn’t want to see me,” he said. Motivated by personal frustration, he admitted to planning the attack using a Kalashnikov rifle he had previously obtained.
What they're saying:
Iranian judicial officials described the motive as personal rather than political. Tehran’s Criminal Court found the attacker guilty of premeditated murder of an Azerbaijani national inside the embassy, illegal possession of firearms, and disruption of public order. Officials emphasized the legal process was handled with full transparency and in accordance with Iran’s penal code.
Key points:
- The assault took place at 8:00 AM on January 27, 2023, killing one Azerbaijani staff member and injuring two others.
- Charges included first-degree murder, unauthorized possession of military-grade weapons, and public disorder.
- The death sentence was upheld by the Supreme Court of Iran before being carried out on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
Go deeper:
The incident temporarily heightened diplomatic tensions between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan. Baku had expressed outrage over the lack of embassy protection, while Tehran maintained that the attacker acted alone and from personal grievance. The case also underscores the Iranian judiciary’s approach to crimes involving foreign entities on its soil, particularly in a region marked by geopolitical volatility.
ahmad shirzadian
