Iranian authorities have shut down a French-language centre affiliated with the French embassy in Tehran following a judicial order, escalating tensions between the two countries.
The centre, which had operated for years under the guise of a foreign-language teaching facility, was closed after Iranian authorities accused it of operating without the required licence despite repeated warnings.
Iran alleged that the facility engaged in activities “against Iranian culture and national security,” including identifying and building networks and facilitating the departure of skilled Iranians from the country.
The closure comes amid a diplomatic dispute between Tehran and Paris, with both sides taking retaliatory measures against the other.
France expelled Iranian diplomats last month after Tehran took a similar step, accusing French diplomatic personnel of “interference” in Iran’s internal affairs.
The latest action by Tehran is likely to further strain already tense relations between the two countries, particularly over allegations of foreign interference and the activities of diplomatic and cultural institutions.
