Iran bars two French embassy staff from returning over alleged civil-society activities

Iran's foreign ministry declared that two French embassy employees linked to a diplomatic dispute last month are barred from returning, accusing them of breaching the Vienna Convention through activities that aid Iranian civil society. Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei asserted that their alleged support for civil society itself confirms the violation, though he offered no additional explanation. Tehran has long been wary of perceived Western interference, especially after U.S. and Israeli attacks in February that escalated the ongoing conflict.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot previously described the staff’s role as developing programmes for Iranian civil society, students and artists, noting France’s extensive support. France responded by summoning Iran’s charge d’affaires in July after alleging intimidation of its embassy staff by Iranian security forces.