National

Iran takes aim at Australia over social media post

By AAP Newswire

Sep 4, 2024

Australia has defended its Iranian embassy staff over a supportive LGBTQIA+ Instagram post. -AAP Image

Australia has defended the right to back in its values overseas after Iran reportedly summoned its ambassador in Tehran over a social media post it deemed "promoted homosexuality".

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The Australian Embassy in Tehran made an Instagram post celebrating "Wear it Purple Day" to create a "supportive environment where everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ youth, can feel proud to be themselves".

The photo shows embassy staff wearing purple and holding a plate of purple cupcakes.

"Let's keep championing diversity and inclusion for a brighter, more inclusive future," an English translation of the post reads.

The post "promoted homosexuality," according to Iranian state media.

Asked about Iran's response, Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt said the government supported all Australians, regardless of their race or sexual orientation.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australia in Iran ðŸ‡¦ðŸ‡ºðŸ‡®ðŸ‡· (@australiainiran)

"I'm very concerned to see an overseas government seemingly take action against an Australian embassy that is upholding Australian values," he told ABC News on Wednesday.

"We're very proud about the fact that our embassies promote Australian values internationally."

The post remains on the embassy's Instagram account.

Iran's leaders have previously described homosexuality as part of the "moral depravity" found in Western society.

With Reuters

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press