Iran shuts French language center in Tehran over alleged ‘illegal’ activities

TEHRAN, Sep 20:  Iranian authorities have sealed a French language center affiliated with the French Embassy in Tehran, accusing it of operating without the required license and engaging in activities that allegedly violated Iranian laws.

The closure was carried out under a judicial order from the Tehran Prosecutor’s Office, according to Iranian media. Authorities said the center had operated for years despite repeated warnings to obtain a license.

Iranian authorities also accused the center of using language education as a cover for projects they said were contrary to Iranian-Islamic culture and national security. They alleged that the center was involved in identifying and networking with Iranians and facilitating the departure of skilled people from the country. These allegations have been attributed to Iranian authorities, and no independent evidence was cited in the reports.

There was no immediate comment from France on the closure.

The move comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Paris. In recent months, the two countries have taken reciprocal diplomatic measures, including expulsions of diplomats.