She emphasizes that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons and that the regime poses a real threat in the region, and also to the West.
We in Sweden have also felt that, says Malmer Stenergard.
The Foreign Minister also emphasizes that the use of force against Iran must be in accordance with international law.
At the moment, it is difficult to see that this would be compatible with international law. The right to use force for preventive purposes, and with reference to a possible imminent threat, is very limited.
Calls for reflection
Malmer Stenergard calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise restraint, to protect the civilian population and to de-escalate.
"We have already seen a dramatic development this morning, with spread across large parts of the region. That says something about what the development may look like. We do not want that," says the Foreign Minister.
She wants the parties to the conflict to return to talks with the goal of a peaceful transition to democracy in Iran and that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) states on X that he will convene the National Security Council to discuss the effects on Sweden and the security of Swedes.
- We know that the regime in Iran is a security threat to Sweden. They have acted previously through criminal organizations in Sweden, says Malmer Stenergard.
So this is a development we must follow very closely and analyze what consequences this may have for Sweden.
Great concern
Another aspect is the safety of Swedes in the affected region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimates that there are around 1,500 Swedish citizens in Iran. Since 2022, there has been a clear warning against travel to the country, and since January all Swedes in Iran have been urged to leave the country.
I really understand that there are many Swedes with roots in Iran, with many relatives there and in the region, who feel very worried, says Malmer Stenergard.
She urges Swedes in Iran to download the Foreign Ministry's app Resklar, to follow advice and information and to sign up for the Swedish list so that their contact information is updated so they can be reached with the latest information.
"It's important to follow this dramatic development minute by minute," says Malmer Stenergard.
