France accuses Iran of intimidating two diplomats in Tehran

French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot said Iranian security services detained two French embassy staff in Tehran, held them for several hours, interrogated them and physically assaulted one, describing the episode as “an extremely serious act of intimidation” and a flagrant violation of diplomatic immunity. The diplomats, who were involved in French programmes supporting Iranian civil‑society artists and scientists, were released and returned to the French embassy, where they are safe and expected to fly back to France within hours.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry rejected the French account. Official Mohammad Tanhaei stated the staff were questioned after attending a meeting with individuals under security investigation, were promptly transferred to diplomatic police, and that no intimidation occurred. France has summoned the Iranian charge d’affaires, demanded clarification, and warned Tehran that the incident “cannot go without consequences.” The dispute unfolds amid heightened regional tension, including recent U.S. strikes on Iran and France’s continued sanctions pressure.

Barrot’s statement was posted on X, while Tehran’s foreign ministry called on France to ensure its diplomats respect Iranian law and diplomatic protocols.