Swiss embassy in Tehran to gradually reopen
Bern, 24.04.2026 — A small team from the Swiss embassy has returned to Tehran this week. The embassy was temporarily closed on 11 March 2026 due to the precarious security situation. The technical team of four Swiss employees is now preparing the gradual resumption of embassy operations.
The decision to gradually reopen the embassy was taken after a risk analysis and in consultation with Iran and the United States, whose interests Switzerland represents under its protecting power mandate.
In an initial phase the Swiss employees will carry out various evaluations with a view to fully resuming operations, though this would also depend on how the situation in Iran develops. Consular services, including the issuing of visas, cannot yet be offered. The technical team is led by the Swiss chargé d'affaires. Once the evaluations on the full reopening of the embassy are complete, the return of the remaining embassy staff is also planned.
Switzerland is following developments in the region carefully and is in close contact with its partners. It is prepared to provide its good offices if the parties so wish and supports all diplomatic initiatives that contribute to de-escalation and a lasting peace. Having now returned to Tehran, Switzerland can once again fulfil its role as a protecting power for US interests directly from Iran. The channel of communication between the two countries was also kept open during the temporary closure.