Iran's Supreme Leader slams France over Telegram founder’s arrest

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly criticized France over the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov, referring to him as a "poor chap" during a recent meeting with the new government officials. 

Khamenei's remarks highlighted his broader concerns about the enforcement of legal standards in cyberspace, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

At the meeting, Khamenei expressed his dissatisfaction with France's handling of Durov, who has been detained and faces potential imprisonment for up to 20 years. 

"The rule of law must prevail in cyberspace. Just look at this poor fellow—the French have taken a harsh stance, imprisoning him and threatening him with up to 20 years in jail, all because he violated their laws," Khamenei stated.

This incident is particularly notable given Iran's own restrictive approach to digital platforms, including blocking access to Telegram, X, YouTube, Netflix, Facebook, and Instagram within the country.