Iran's Intelligence Ministry accused two French diplomats of conducting an "infiltration and interference" operation, alleging they were found at a secret meeting with documents pointing to network-building efforts. Paris stated the diplomats were detained and assaulted, working on programs supporting Iranian civil society.
The accusations and counter-accusations between Iran and France escalate diplomatic tensions and highlight ongoing concerns over foreign interference in Iran's internal affairs, potentially impacting bilateral relations and regional stability.
Iran's Intelligence Ministry has accused two French diplomats of conducting an "infiltration and interference" operation within the country. The ministry alleged that the diplomats were discovered at a secret meeting place, and that documents found there indicated efforts to establish contacts and build networks. Contracts linked to this alleged project reportedly carried the signature of a former French ambassador to Iran.
According to a statement from the ministry, its forces encountered the diplomats during a judicial operation aimed at arresting two suspects in a case involving foreign infiltration. The ministry claimed the diplomats had extensive records of violations inconsistent with Iranian laws and diplomatic obligations. After their identities were verified, they were handed over to the Iranian ambassador to France in the presence of diplomatic police. The ministry stated it initially withheld public disclosure while investigating, but lashed out at French officials for launching a media campaign to cover up alleged violations.
Initial examinations of recovered documents revealed a "sinister project" aimed at paving the way for French action against Iran's independence, involving identifying individuals, establishing covert contacts, and building networks. The ministry warned France against further illegal and interventionist actions, emphasizing that such conduct, especially during wartime, is a clear violation of Iranian law and diplomatic norms. It urged France to focus on domestic issues rather than interfering in independent countries' affairs.
France, however, stated that the two diplomats were detained for nearly four hours, prevented from contacting their embassy, and that one was physically assaulted. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described the incident as a serious violation of diplomatic immunity, a claim Iran denied. France also stated the diplomats were working on programs supporting Iranian civil society, including artists and scientists, and have since returned to France. Investigations into the case by Iran's Intelligence Ministry are ongoing.