Tensions have escalated between Argentina and Iran following Argentina’s request to Sri Lanka for the arrest of a top Iranian official allegedly involved in a deadly bombing in Buenos Aires in 1994. The Argentine government has identified the individual as Ahmad Vahidi, a member of Iranian President Raisi’s delegation, who is suspected of playing a role in the attack that claimed the lives of 85 people.
Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi’s presence in Sri Lanka sparked immediate controversy, with Argentina urging Sri Lankan authorities to detain him for extradition. The bombing, which targeted the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association (AMIA) building, remains one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Argentina’s history. Investigations have long pointed to Iranian involvement, although Tehran has consistently denied any responsibility.
In response to Argentina’s request, Iran swiftly denied Vahidi’s presence in Sri Lanka at the time, asserting that he had departed from Pakistan prior to the request. Iranian authorities dismissed the allegations against Vahidi as politically motivated and reiterated their stance on the matter.