BRASILIA, Brazil, April 25 (UPI) -- Iran has recalled a diplomat from Brazil amid allegations he sexually abused children at a swimming pool in Brasilia, state media in Brazil reported.
Agencia Brasil reported Ramin Mehmanparast, a spokesman for the Iranian foreign affairs ministry, said the allegations will be "seriously considered," CNN reported Wednesday.
The U.S. network said the 51-year-old diplomat allegedly fondled the genitals of four boys and girls -- ages 9-14 -- during a birthday party at a swimming pool at a social club in the Brazilian capital April 4.
The diplomat, who was not identified, worked at the Iranian embassy in Brazil but in what capacity remained unclear.
After children reported the alleged abuse, angry parents confronted the diplomat and at least one parent assaulted him, CNN affiliate G1 reported.
Local military police responded to the scene of the alleged abuse.
The diplomat had been a member of the social club about a year. His membership was suspended.
Iran had initially said the allegations resulted from a "misunderstanding arising from differences in cultural behavior" and media bias.
CNN said Iran and Brazil have had largely amicable relations for more than a century.
