Kuwait expels Iranian diplomats over 'terror links'

Kuwait ordered the expulsion of around 15 Iranian diplomats on Thursday following the conviction of a "terror" cell in the Gulf state allegedly linked to Tehran, a government source told AFP.

The Gulf state also ordered the closure of Iranian "military, cultural and trade" missions, the unnamed official added.

Last month, Kuwait's supreme court sentenced the cell's mastermind to life in prison and 20 others to various prison term over alleged links with Iran and Hizballah.

It is thought that the group was plotting to carry out attacks in Kuwait.

Gulf power and Kuwait ally Saudi Arabia has been at loggerheads with Iran over a number of regional issues.

Saudi Arabia has also led a blockade on GCC partner Qatar, due to its alleged close links with Iran.