TEHRAN – Iran’s foreign ministry has condemned the detention of Iranian citizens in France, calling action a violation of freedom of expression and urged French authorities to quickly resolve the issue.
Speaking at weekly press conferences on Monday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeir Baghihai expressed serious concern over the detention of Iranian citizen Mahdier Esfandiari and another Iranian citizen in Paris, explaining the form of freedom of expression and form of collusion with crimes occurring in the region.
Baghaei said Tehran officially raised the issue with French authorities and pursued it through relevant diplomatic channels. He announced that Iran had secured an agreement at a consulate meeting with Esfandiari and asked the French government to quickly clarify the situation.
“Our citizens have committed no crime other than expressing feelings about the atrocities that are currently unfolding in the area,” Baguey emphasized.
Responding to questions about Iran’s broader efforts to protect its citizens abroad, Baghey stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs believes it has an obligation to follow up on all the challenges facing Iranian citizens internationally. “I am pleased to have taken a step forward with Esfandiari’s case and hope that France will honor its international human rights obligation,” he said.
“Iran committed to the red line in negotiations.”
Baghaei outlined Tehran’s diplomatic activities, highlighting compliance with national interests, and responded to recent international developments.
He emphasized that the details of the negotiations will not be finalized unless Iran’s comprehensive framework and red lines are strictly observed. “We seriously maintain the red line,” he pointed out.
Emphasizing Iran’s diplomatic outreach, Baguei said the broad dialogue between Iran’s neighbors and JCPOA parties demonstrates the country’s goodwill and constructive intentions. He hoped that European countries would adopt an active role in the ongoing debate.
Regarding scheduling further negotiations, Baghaei said the timing will be determined by mutual agreement, reaffirming the seriousness of Iran’s pursuit of consultations aimed at lifting sanctions targeting Iranian people.
Reviewing diplomatic activities last week, Baguei highlighted the foreign minister’s trip to China and Russia during intensive talks on development in Gaza and the West Bank. “Unfortunately, Gaza genocide continues to increase the number of atrocities,” he said, adding that nearly 300 innocent people were killed there in the last week alone. He criticized the international community for failing humanitarian tests and denounced certain Western support for Americans and Israel.
“Major demands for access consultations on Iranian assets overseas”
Baghaei emphasized that the lack of freezing Iranian assets overseas is a key part of the ongoing negotiations.
He said Tehran relies on consultations of experts during the process, including veteran economic and nuclear experts, and would insist on full access to the country’s freeze fund.
“European countries not being kicked out of negotiations”
Baghey rejected the allegations that Iran tried to exclude European countries from its diplomatic efforts, saying “their absence is the result of their own decision, not Iran’s decision.”
“Model of a partnership to honor relations between Iran and China”
In response to Western criticism of Iran’s growing relations with China, Bagaei said the partnership between Iran and Beijing was based on mutual respect and shared interests, in contrast to the unstable role of Western countries in the region. “China’s involvement has been constructive, but certain Western countries are complicit in genocide and regional interventions,” he said.
“IAEA Technical Delegation Visits Tehran”
Baghaei confirmed the arrival of a technical delegation from Tehran’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and cooperated after working with General Rafael Grossi during a recent consultation with Iranian officials.
The discussion will focus on the remaining issues of safeguards. “We expect agents to act professionally and avoid political action,” he emphasized.
“Iran places importance on long-standing relationships with both India and Pakistan.”
In response to recent tensions between India and Pakistan following the terrorist attacks in India, Baghhai expressed sympathy for the Indian people and emphasized Iran’s emphasis on long-standing relations with both countries. “We hope that tensions will come along. We do not welcome instability between these two important Asian neighbours,” he said, noting that both the president and the foreign minister have reached out to their counterparts.
“Tehran: Baku relations on the path of progress”
Baghaei said President Pezeshkian’s future visit to Azerbaijan was extremely important, and that preparations for those few months have entered the trip. He said the visit would open a new chapter in bilateral relations, highlighting the importance of stability in the South Caucasus.
“The Iran-Africa Summit and Iranian Expo highlight economic potential.”
Baghaei praised the successful organization of the Iran-Africa summit and Iranian exposition, which has been attended by over 100 countries.
He said the event introduced Iran’s economic and technical capabilities and strengthened relations with African countries, but no greater possibilities have been elicited.