Iran Urges France to Respect Human Rights in Handling Protesters

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has urged France to respect human rights in its handling of protesters, according to a statement reported by Mehr News Agency (MNA). Baghaei criticized French officials for what he described as a double standard, noting that while they characterize the Iranian security forces' confrontation with armed and trained terrorists affiliated with the Zionist regime as a human rights violation, they do not tolerate even the slightest act of violence against police during peaceful gatherings in France and suppress protesters with the utmost severity.

Baghaei stressed the necessity for demonstrators to avoid violent behavior and damage to public and private property, as well as to refrain from attacking law enforcement forces. He referred to reports published by French news agencies regarding the arrest of over 2,000 protesters and their beating by police. He called for an investigation into allegations that security forces used excessive violence against the protesters.

The spokesperson's remarks highlight ongoing tensions between Iran and France over human rights issues. Iran has frequently accused Western countries of hypocrisy in their criticism of its internal affairs, while Western nations have raised concerns about Iran's handling of protests. The statement comes amid broader international scrutiny of both countries' records on civil liberties and law enforcement conduct.

According to Mehr News Agency, Baghaei's comments underscore Iran's position that France should adhere to the same standards it demands of others. The report did not specify whether Iran would take further diplomatic action or whether France has responded to the allegations. The situation remains a point of contention in Iran-France relations, with both sides trading accusations over human rights practices.