Okhoa Expels Krauanagazan Diplomats Over Espionage Allegations
Varekko, Okhoa— The Tribunal of Lawgivers, Okhoa’s highest judicial authority, has upheld the Regional Council’s decision to expel four Krauanagazan diplomats stationed at the Krauanagazan consulate in Varekko. The diplomats are accused of engaging in covert espionage activities deemed “detrimental to the security of Okhoa.”
The Tribunal announced its ruling after an expedited review, citing “compelling evidence” provided by Okhoa’s law enforcement services. “The activities of these individuals constituted a direct threat to the sovereignty and security of Okhoa,” read the Tribunal’s ruling. “Their continued presence is incompatible with our national interests.”
The diplomats, whose identities have not been disclosed, have been given 72 hours to leave Okhoa. This marks one of the most significant escalations in the already strained relationship between Okhoa and Krauanagaz, fueling concerns about broader regional implications with the ongoing Gulf War.
While specific details of the alleged activities remain classified, Okhoa’s Regional Council has accused the diplomats of using their positions to gather intelligence on sensitive governmental and military operations. Council spokesperson Zarys Kira stated, “This decision sends a clear message that Okhoa will not tolerate foreign interference in its internal affairs.”
The expulsions come amid long-standing accusations from both Okhoa and Zuhlgani leadership that Krauanagaz has supported militant factions within the Okhoa Independence Party, which advocates for greater autonomy or full independence from Zuhlgan. Krauanagaz has consistently denied any direct involvement, dismissing such claims as baseless.
The Krauanagazan State Department issued a strongly worded statement condemning the Tribunal’s decision as, “unfounded and politically motivated.” It denied any espionage activities by its diplomats and accused Okhoa of acting under external pressure.
“This action undermines the principles of diplomacy and mutual respect,” the statement read. “We urge the Okhoa Regional Council and Tribunal of Lawgivers to reconsider this unfounded decision, which risks destabilizing relations between Krauanagaz and Okhoa.”
Though one of the most explosive stories of 2024 came in March, when leaked documents exposed the covert operation known as Project Phoenix, orchestrated by the Krauanagazan Federal Defense Intelligence Agency (FDIA). The operation, aimed at destabilizing the Zuhlgani regime, significantly altered the diplomatic landscape between Krauanagaz, Zuhlgan, and other regional powers.
The leaked documents, obtained and published by The Scope, detailed an ambitious effort to undermine Zuhlgan’s leadership by fostering dissent within its government, disseminating propaganda, and supporting opposition groups. The operation, allegedly supervised by former Ambassador Naka Kapalan, came to light shortly after Kapalan’s expulsion from Zuhlgan on charges of espionage. Kapalan denied all allegations, but the fallout from the revelations sent shockwaves through Cordilian geopolitics.
Diplomatic relations between Krauanagaz and Zuhlgan rapidly deteriorated following the leak. The Zuhlgani government issued a scathing protest, accusing Krauanagaz of gross violations of international law and demanding reparations. Secretary of State Darius Korin publicly emphasized Krauanagaz’s commitment to transparency and international law, while Krauanaet Zharan promised a thorough investigation into the FDIA’s actions.
In April of 2024, Kapalan died at the Central Hospital in Yayyára accompanied by accusations from Krauanagaz, that Kapalan was poisoned by Zuhlgani operatives leading to his hospitalization.
The diplomatic expulsions have drawn mixed reactions from the international community. Zuhlgan, which maintains administrative control over Okhoa, welcomed the decision, framing it as a necessary step to protect the Protectorate’s sovereignty.
“This ruling reinforces Okhoa’s resolve to stand against subversive activities,” said Zuhlgan’s foreign ministry in a brief statement.
Meanwhile, Cordilian Human Rights Watch and other advocacy organizations have expressed concerns over potential overreach, calling for transparency in the evidence used to justify the expulsions. “While national security is paramount, any actions taken must adhere to international norms and due process,” said Terali Novik, a spokesperson for CHRW.
With tensions rising, the focus now shifts to Krauanagaz’s next move. Political observers warn that this incident could have ripple effects on the already volatile dynamics in the Gulf of Good Omen, where Krauanagaz, Zuhlgan, and Okhoa are major players in ongoing conflicts.
“This decision signals Okhoa’s desire to assert its autonomy, but it also risks provoking a larger confrontation,” said Dr. Zalvian Turrek, an expert in Cordilian geopolitics. “How Krauanagaz reacts in the coming days will be critical in determining whether this escalates further.”
For now, the expelled diplomats are expected to depart Varekko by Tuesday, leaving behind a deepening diplomatic rift and raising questions about the future of Krauanagazan-Okhoa relations.