Diplomatic Row Escalates as Netherlands and Iran Summon Each Other’s Ambassadors

A dispute between the Netherlands and Iran has intensified after both countries summoned each other’s ambassadors over the seizure of luggage belonging to a Dutch diplomat at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport. The incident, which occurred on January 28, 2026, centers around allegations that the luggage contained prohibited satellite communications equipment.

The Incident at Imam Khomeini Airport

Iranian authorities confiscated the luggage of André van Wiggen, a Dutch Foreign Ministry official, upon his arrival at Imam Khomeini Airport. Iran claims the bag contained a portable Starlink modem and several satellite phones [1]. Van Wiggen, who previously served as Deputy Head of Mission at the Netherlands Embassy in Tehran from 2019 to 2022 and later as Head of Political Affairs at the Netherlands Embassy in Washington, D.C. [3], refused to allow his bags to be scanned, citing diplomatic immunity. Iranian officials then seized the luggage and inspected it in a side room.

Dutch Response and Accusations

The Netherlands has strongly condemned Iran’s actions, calling the incident “unacceptable” and accusing Iran of breaching diplomatic protocols [1]. The Dutch Foreign Ministry summoned the Iranian ambassador to The Hague for an explanation. Dutch officials state that Iran’s version of events is “factually incorrect” but have not confirmed the contents of the package [1]. They maintain that Iran is not complying with the agreements outlined in the 1961 Vienna Convention regarding diplomatic communications [1].

Iranian Counterclaims and Evidence

Iran defends its actions, asserting that it had legitimate grounds to inspect the luggage due to suspicions of smuggling. Iranian state TV released footage showing border guards opening the parcel, revealing the Starlink modem and satellite phones [1]. Satellite communications technology is banned in Iran as part of the regime’s efforts to control internet access.

Escalation and Diplomatic Fallout

Following the release of the footage, the Netherlands summoned the Iranian ambassador again, citing Iran’s breach of silence and regret over the public disclosure of the incident [1]. Iran has also summoned the Dutch ambassador in retaliation [2], further escalating the diplomatic confrontation.

Background: Dutch-Iranian Intelligence Relationship

Analysts suggest this incident highlights a long-standing, and often tense, bilateral intelligence relationship between the Netherlands and Iran [3]. WikiLeaks diplomatic cables reportedly show Van Wiggen shared intelligence assessments on Iran with American officials during his previous posting in Tehran [3].

The dispute underscores the growing friction surrounding technologies like Starlink, which Iran views as a threat to its control over information.