France Condemns Reported Diplomatic Incident in Iran as Envoys Return to Paris
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has confirmed that two French diplomats have returned to Paris following what he described as a serious incident involving Iranian security personnel during their mission in Iran.
Speaking on Thursday, Barrot said the diplomats were brought back to France after being detained during what he characterized as a premeditated episode. According to the minister, the two officials will continue carrying out their diplomatic responsibilities from Paris while receiving support from French authorities.
Barrot alleged that the diplomats were detained for several hours, denied access to communication with the French Embassy, and subjected to intimidation. He also claimed that one of the diplomats was physically assaulted during the incident.
The French foreign minister said the diplomats had been engaged in programs supporting Iranian civil society, including academic, scientific, and cultural initiatives. He emphasized that France considers any action against accredited diplomats unacceptable under international diplomatic norms.
Paris has formally protested the incident through diplomatic channels, including raising the matter with Iran’s foreign minister and summoning Iran’s chargé d’affaires in France. Barrot said French authorities are evaluating additional diplomatic responses, stressing that the matter should not remain without consequences.
Addressing broader regional developments, the French minister also called for de-escalation between the United States and Iran, urging all parties to avoid further confrontation. He appealed for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to restore commercial maritime traffic and ease pressure on global energy markets.
Barrot further stated that France remains prepared to contribute to maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, including mine-clearing and escort missions if conditions permit.
Separately, he confirmed that France had summoned the Russian ambassador over an alleged cyber campaign attributed to Russian security services, adding that further European sanctions were expected.
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