Speeches, etc.

Margaret Thatcher

Letter to Iranian President (Bani-Sadr) (Iranian Embassy siege)

Document type: Speeches, interviews, etc.
Venue: No.10 Downing Street
Source: Thatcher Archive
Editorial comments: The message was sent "early yesterday", according to The Times, 2 May 1980.
Importance ranking: Major
Word count: 109
Themes: Foreign policy (Middle East), Terrorism

I should like you to know of my deep personal concern about the situation at the Iranian Embassy in London. This intrusion constitutes an act of terrorism and an infringement of the immunity of diplomatic staff which the British Government finds totally repugnant and is acting firmly to counter. I hope that the incident will be resolved speedily and I can assure you that the safety of the lives at stake will be a paramount consideration. The Home Secretary himself is in charge of the situation, and I myself am taking a very close personal interest. We assure you that we shall be keeping in constant touch with you and your government.