France to summon Iranian envoy over Tehran language centre closure

France announced plans to summon Iran's envoy to Paris following the closure of a French language centre in Tehran, marking an escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Iranian officials justified the shutdown by asserting the institute had engaged in illegal activities that contravened international diplomatic protocols.

The French government has characterised the closure as an unwarranted action against a cultural establishment long-established in the Iranian capital. Officials in Paris view the measure as a restriction on educational and cultural exchange, core pillars of Franco-Iranian relations beyond the current political climate.

Tehran has not provided specific details regarding the alleged violations, citing only that the centre's operations breached provisions under which foreign institutions operate in Iran. The Iranian move reflects broader strains in relations between Paris and Tehran, compounded by disagreements over the nuclear programme and regional security concerns.

The summons of Iran's ambassador represents a formal diplomatic protest and signals France's intent to seek explanations and potentially reverse the decision through official channels. The incident underscores the fragility of cultural and educational ties amid wider geopolitical tensions in the region.