In Iran, two French nationals have been charged with espionage charges. This has been announced by a spokesman for the judiciary. According to Misan’s justice portal, another allegation was “conspiracy against national security”.
The trials are conducted before a Revolutionary Court. The identity of the suspect is not yet known.
Political hostages?
French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna confirmed the arrest of two French nationals in November amid nationwide protests in Iran. Several European citizens, including tourists, have been arrested and charged in Iran in the past.
According to the judiciary, at least 40 foreigners have been arrested since the protests broke out in mid-September. The security authorities usually justify the arrests with charges of espionage. Critics, on the other hand, accuse Iran of holding foreigners as political hostages.
The trigger for the nationwide protests in Iran was the death of Mahsa Amini on September 16, 2022 in police custody. The Iranian Kurd was arrested by the so-called moral police for violating Iran’s Islamic dress code. Since then, there have been repeated protests against the repressive course of the government and the Islamic regime. (SDA)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
