France to Expel Two Iranian Diplomats Following Arrest of French Diplomats in Tehran

France announced on August 18, 2026, its intention to expel two Iranian diplomats in response to Tehran's arrest and declaration of two French diplomats as persona non grata. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot condemned the brief detention of the French diplomats during a meeting in Tehran on July 19 with Iranian graphic designers Aria Kasaei and Elahe "Elly" Naghilou, both of whom remain detained in Iran. Barrot described the arrest as a serious intimidation tactic and revealed that one of the French diplomats, a cultural attaché, was mistreated.

Iran's Foreign Ministry claimed the French diplomats were briefly questioned after meeting individuals wanted by Iranian authorities, and its Ministry of Intelligence accused France of trying to exert internal influence over Iran. In response to these accusations and growing tensions between the countries marked by several French nationals being detained in Iran recently, the French government summoned the Iranian ambassador to the Quai d'Orsay to inform him of the expulsion decision.

This diplomatic escalation further intensifies the strained relations between France and Iran, with France supporting the Iranian people and condemning Tehran's actions. The expulsion is slated to take place within days, highlighting the ongoing tit-for-tat diplomatic measures between the two nations.