Why Did Peru Decide to Cut Diplomatic Relations with Iran?

Peru announced the severance of its diplomatic relations with Iran, accusing Tehran of contributing to the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East and obstructing maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement that the Lima government made its decision based on what it described as the country's historical stance supporting peace.

The ministry added that the Peruvian government "took the decision to cut diplomatic relations" with Iran, a move coming amid a sharp escalation in tensions between Iran and the United States and their regional implications on navigation.

Lima justified its decision by accusing Tehran of inciting "the escalation of conflicts" in the Middle East, as well as obstructing ship movements through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors for global trade and energy supplies.

Relations remained relatively limited over subsequent decades compared to Iran’s ties with other countries in Latin America, with sporadic efforts to revive commercial cooperation. In 2014, the Iranian ambassador accredited to Peru spoke about his country’s interest in expanding trade, particularly in food security and increasing imports from Peru.