Iran Accuses French Diplomats of 'Infiltration and Interference'

Iran's Intelligence Ministry has accused two French diplomats of participating in an "infiltration and interference" operation, warning the French government that it must answer for its representatives' actions within the country. The ministry stated that the diplomats were detected at a "clandestine meeting place" while investigating a significant case of foreign interference and executing a judicial order to detain suspects.

According to a ministry statement, evidence and seized documents suggest a project aimed at infiltration, foreign interference, and undermining Iran's independence. The ministry noted that some related contracts bear the signature of a former French ambassador, demanding explanations from Paris for these alleged "illegal and interventionist actions."

The alleged project reportedly involved identifying individuals, establishing clandestine contacts both inside and outside Iran, and building networks with specific persons of interest to France. The Intelligence Ministry asserted that the two French diplomats had prior records of "infractions" and behavior contrary to Iranian laws and their diplomatic obligations.

Following their detention and interrogation on July 19, the French Foreign Ministry summoned Iran's charge d'affaires in Paris to condemn the incident. Paris described the event as a "premeditated and deliberate aggression," while Tehran rejected the accusation. The French government stated that its embassy staff in Tehran manage French programs supporting Iranian civil society, particularly artists and scientists.