Iranian Judiciary Orders Closure of French Language Center in Tehran

The Iranian judiciary has directed the shutdown of the French Language Center (CLF) in Tehran, a facility operated by the French embassy, following a judicial order declaring its activities unlawful due to lack of official licensing.

According to the judiciary’s media center, the CLF continued operating despite repeated official warnings requiring it to obtain formal authorization under Iranian laws and regulations. The center failed to secure the necessary permit to conduct its activities legally within the country.

The judiciary accused the CLF of exploiting French language instruction as a façade for actions it described as hostile to Iran’s Islamic culture and national security. In its statement, the judiciary alleged the center sought to attract elites and facilitate their emigration abroad.

The closure decision followed the center’s refusal to comply with legal requirements, with the judiciary asserting that its ongoing unlicensed operation constitutes a violation of Iran’s applicable laws and regulations.

The judiciary’s media center emphasized that diplomatic missions and their affiliated centers must adhere to the laws and regulations of the host country, reaffirming its commitment to international norms and diplomatic practice.