Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed speculation about the status of Iran's diplomatic presence in Venezuela, confirming embassy staff remain at their posts with "no particular problem" as the South American nation faces political turmoil.

Araghchi delivered a report on the latest developments in Venezuela at a cabinet meeting on January 5, according to Tasnim news agency and Iran Student News Agency.

Ali Chegeni, Iran's ambassador to Venezuela, rejected any suggestion of closure when asked about the embassy's continued operations in Caracas. "There is no talk of closure, even temporarily," Chegeni said, adding that the embassy "is carrying out its duties with greater determination and resolve than before".

The statements come as Venezuela prepares for the inauguration of President Nicolas Maduro on January 10 amid disputed election results. Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez claims victory in the July 2024 presidential election, with several countries including the United States refusing to recognise Maduro's declared win.

Iran maintains close ties with Venezuela, with both countries facing US sanctions and sharing anti-Western political alignment. The two nations have cooperated on oil shipments, military technology transfers and economic agreements despite international pressure.

The Foreign Ministry's decision to address the embassy's status publicly suggests concerns or rumours had circulated about potential evacuation or suspension of operations. Neither Araghchi nor Chegeni specified what prompted the clarification.

Venezuela's political crisis has intensified in recent days, with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado briefly detained by security forces on January 2 before being released.

Several Latin American countries have called for new elections while Maduro's government has arrested opposition figures and cracked down on protests.

Iran's continued diplomatic presence signals Tehran's commitment to maintaining relationships with allies facing international isolation, despite domestic economic pressures and ongoing protests at home over living costs and currency collapse.