Iran summons French ambassador over terrorist support

The Iranian Foreign Ministry called in the French ambassador in Tehran on January 12 to protest France's hosting of terrorists. 

During a press conference in Tehran on January 13, Spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry Esmaeil Baghaei emphasised that not supporting terrorism is a legal international duty, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media. 

He pointed out that applying double standards would lead to a rise in lawlessness. 

In response to a question by Tasnim regarding France's recent stance against Iran, Baghaei commented, "We hope that France will free itself from this confusion and adopt a more constructive approach to the region. We have already responded to the recent statements."

Baghaei also criticized France’s statements regarding Iran’s nuclear programme, describing them as baseless and without merit. 

"Sadly, these comments are an attempt to deflect attention, and they are completely unacceptable," he concluded.

Regarding the murder of two Iranian nationals in France, Baghaei stated, "We have followed up on the matter concerning the two Iranian citizens. We have not yet received sufficient information regarding the essence of the issue to determine whether the murders were of a terrorist nature or not. Our embassy in France is pursuing the matter. We hope that justice will be served against the perpetrators of this crime."

In a statement on January 11, Baghaei condemned France's decision to host a meeting of the terrorist Mujahedeen-e-Khalq (MKO), calling it a clear example of supporting terrorism and violating the French government's international legal obligations to combat and prevent terrorism. 

He referred to the MKO's history of terrorist activities, which have resulted in the deaths of thousands of innocent Iranians and injured many more. Baghaei also reminded that the group had collaborated with Saddam Hussein's regime during the eight-year military aggression against Iran, as reported by the ministry’s website.

The spokesman described the ongoing presence and activities of the MKO terrorist group in France as a violation of France's international legal obligations, particularly under relevant international treaties related to combating terrorism and UN Security Council Resolution 1373. 

Earlier, the Iranian ambassador to Paris was summoned to the French Foreign Ministry, where a strong demand was voiced for the release of French citizens who are held hostage by Iranian authorities. 

"Their conditions of detention are intolerable and degrading," a communiqué says. The situation with the French detainees was compared to torture.

"The mobilization of the French authorities for the release of our fellow citizens and the support for their families and relatives remains comprehensive," the statement noted. 

The communiqué includes a recommendation advising French nationals against visiting Iran. Those already in the country on a short-term basis are urged to leave immediately due to the "risk of being arrested and subjected to arbitrary detention."

By Naila Huseynova