BBC: Group storms UK embassy in Iran

Tuesday, 30 December 2008

Demonstrators stormed the compound of the British Embassy in Iran, the Foreign Office has confirmed.

The incident happened at 1720 GMT (2050 local time) and reports claimed the occupation lasted for about an hour.

A Foreign Office spokesman said the situation had been resolved and all staff were safe and accounted for.

He could not confirm reports that the demonstrators were protesting against what they see as British support for Israel's air strikes on Gaza.

There were also unconfirmed reports that the demonstrators tore down the British flag and hoisted a Palestinian standard in its place.

One demonstrator, who gave his name only as Ali, told the Associated Press television service: "We brought down the British flag and put up the flag of Palestine so we can send our message."

He said the people of Gaza were being ignored by the world and referred to Britain as an "old sleeping fox".

He added: "We want to give them a message that we are alive and will support the people of Gaza."

No one at the embassy was available for comment.