Iran: French officials urge citizens against travel to the country due to threat of arbitrary detention as of July 5

Event

France's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory urging French citizens and residents to avoid traveling to Iran as of July 5. The advisory comes amid concerns of arbitrary detention and unfair trial of French citizens and dual nationals. Officials have further noted that the French Embassy in Tehran will be limited in its capacity to assist those who are arrested in Iran.

Context

The threat of arbitrary detention and imprisonment of foreign nationals, especially Western visitors, will likely persist in Iran for the foreseeable future. Security forces regularly detain and arrest foreigners of Iranian origin on security and espionage grounds. Foreign travelers to Iran, particularly Western visitors, continue to face questioning, detention, and imprisonment, particularly if they have any ties to military or government agencies. Iranian security officials have always been suspicious of Western travelers and Iranians who travel between their adopted countries and Iran. In light of continued tensions with the US and its allies, Iran is likely to intensify scrutiny of foreigners and dual citizens visiting the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.