Iran Closes French Language Centre Linked to Embassy, Sparks Diplomatic Tensions

Iran closes French language centre linked to embassy, prompting Paris to condemn the move and threaten action.

September 21, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Tehran, Iran — Iranian authorities have shut down a French language centre connected to the French embassy in Tehran, accusing it of engaging in unauthorized activities, leading to an immediate backlash from Paris.

The judiciary’s Mizan news outlet reported that the French Language Centre (CLF), which had been operating for years under the pretense of offering language courses, was closed based on a directive from the Tehran prosecutor’s office. The court claimed the facility violated diplomatic norms by misusing its status as an educational institution.

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The French Foreign Ministry strongly criticized the move, calling it unjustifiable and unacceptable. It stated it would take appropriate actions in response and planned to summon Iran’s ambassador following a request from Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. This development comes amid growing friction between the two nations, including France’s recent expulsion of two Iranian diplomats over alleged interference in internal affairs.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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