Iran shuts language centre linked to French embassy

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced a recent closure of a French language centre in Tehran, accusing the facility of engaging in illegal activities that contravened diplomatic norms. The French-language Centre (CLF), operating under the guise of language instruction, was shut down by Iranian authorities based on the Tehran Prosecutor's Office.

The centre was accused of exploiting its status as a language training facility to build networks among Iran's elite figures and assist their departure from the country. Paris responded forcefully to the incident, calling the move "unjustifiable and unacceptable" and threatening to take appropriate measures in retaliation. In response to France's stern reaction, Iran summoned the French ambassador to discuss the matter.

Tensions between Iran and France have escalated over the past few months, with France expelling two Iranian diplomats in response to the brief detention of two French envoys in Iran. The conflict has further been fueled by Iran's allegations that the French diplomats were involved in "interference in Iran's internal affairs."