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Iranian judicial authorities have closed the French Language Center (CLF), which is linked to the French Embassy in Tehran, accusing it of “illegal activities.”
The center was sealed on Sunday under a decision by the Tehran Prosecutor’s Office. Local authorities had reportedly repeatedly warned it to obtain a license to operate, but the requirement was not met.
Iran’s allegations
According to a statement issued by Mizan, an agency affiliated with Iran’s judiciary, the center’s activities were not limited to language instruction. Officials alleged that its educational programs were being used as a cover for projects contrary to Iran’s Islamic culture and national security.
The statement also said the center was involved in identifying and coordinating talented Iranians and facilitating their departure from the country.
Tensions in Tehran-Paris relations
The closure is the latest diplomatic dispute between Tehran and Paris following disagreements over detainees and the reciprocal expulsion of diplomats and cultural attachés.
The incident comes as relations between Iran and several European countries have become increasingly tense. In this context, ambassadors have been summoned over issues involving Sweden and Germany, while some diplomats have been declared persona non grata.
France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States recently put forward a resolution on Iran’s nuclear program at the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The document called for the issue to be referred to the UN Security Council and General Assembly.
Araghchi responds to French counterpart
Before the latest dispute between Tehran and Paris, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to remarks on human rights by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.
In a post on the X platform, Araghchi criticized Barrot over France’s silence after Iranian schoolchildren were killed in US-Israeli airstrikes and said: “Stop the hypocritical tears.”
Araghchi has traveled to New York to attend a session of the UN General Assembly. During his visit, he is expected to discuss bilateral issues and regional developments with his counterparts, including Barrot.
