Iran Summons French Ambassador Over 'Violent' Response to Student Protests

Iran summoned France’s ambassador on Tuesday to protest the handling of student demonstrations, urging Paris to uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of peaceful assembly.

Pierre Cochard, the French envoy in Tehran, was called in after several days of confrontations between police and demonstrators seeking improvements in school conditions, Iranian state media reported.

Tehran Alleges Rights Violations

Iran described the response as “violent treatment” and accused French authorities of “extensive and flagrant human rights violations.”

The demonstrations started toward the end of last month and have involved unrest.

Tehran’s complaint centered on the authorities’ conduct toward protesters.

Diplomatic Strains

The summons adds to tensions between the two governments.

France and Iran expelled diplomats from each other’s countries in August after months of strained relations.

Iran’s own handling of demonstrations has also faced accusations of deadly force.

During major protests against the government in January, Iranian authorities reported a death toll exceeding 3,000.

Officials attributed those deaths to what they described as terrorist acts directed by the U.S. and Israel.

NGOs based outside Iran maintain that security forces shot at protesters.