Iran has announced the closure of a French language centre linked to the French embassy in Tehran, stating that the decision was made due to security and licensing issues. This action comes shortly after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi accused France of “crocodile tears” in relation to the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman whose passing has sparked significant public outcry.

The French language centre’s closure has heightened existing tensions between Tehran and Paris. French authorities have indicated plans to summon Iran’s ambassador to discuss the matter and are expected to take necessary diplomatic steps in response to this development.

Reports from Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency indicate that the closure follows a judicial directive issued by the Tehran prosecutor’s office. This decision has implications for cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Iran Claims Centre Engaged in Unauthorised Activities

Iran’s officials allege that the French language centre, which had operated for several years, was engaged in activities that undermined Iranian culture and national security. They assert that the centre had been warned multiple times to secure the appropriate operating licence but failed to comply.

Authorities have claimed that the centre was involved in identifying and assembling networks that allegedly facilitated the emigration of skilled individuals from Iran. In contrast, French officials have refuted these allegations, suggesting that they are part of a broader pattern of intimidation as France seeks to reinforce its connections with Iranian civil society amidst increasing governmental repression.

The French Foreign Ministry has condemned this closure as an unjust attack on its cultural representation in Iran. Ministry spokesperson Pascal Confavreux characterised the incident as part of a concerning trend, following a prior attack on two French embassy staff members in July.

Diplomatic Dispute Intensifies Over Social Media Remarks

This diplomatic row intensified following comments made by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who highlighted the anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s death via a social media post. Amini’s passing, which occurred in custody in September 2022, prompted widespread protests and has led to increased scrutiny of the Iranian government’s treatment of dissent and issues surrounding women’s rights.

In response to Barrot’s post, Araqchi dismissed the sentiments expressed as “crocodile tears,” further accusing France of historical injustices during Algeria’s war of independence, in which he claimed 1.5 million Algerians were killed. The foreign minister also referred to grievances regarding past US actions, stating, “Your silence when the US massacred our schoolkids said it all,” alluding to a particular incident in Iran for which Tehran holds the US accountable.

This exchange has further strained relations, with Iran and France already at odds over several issues, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the detention of French citizens, and the treatment of diplomatic personnel. Both foreign ministers are scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations gathering next week, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts despite the rising tensions.

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