Iran Shuts Down French Language Centre in Tehran, Citing Illegal Activities

The French language centre in Tehran, known as the Centre for Language and Culture, has operated for years as an educational institution linked to the French embassy. Its purpose was to teach French and promote cultural exchange between Iran and France.

Tensions between Iran and France have flared at various points in recent years, but the centre had continued its activities until now. Iranian authorities claim the centre repeatedly ignored warnings about its licence status and the limits of its activities.

On September 20, 2026, Iranian judicial authorities ordered the immediate closure of the French language centre in Tehran. The Tehran prosecutor's office accused the centre of conducting activities beyond language teaching, which they said were contrary to Iranian culture and harmful to national security.

Iranian officials also stated the centre operated without the necessary licence, despite receiving multiple warnings to comply with regulations. They accused the centre of abusing its diplomatic status and violating conventions.

France reacted strongly to the closure, publicly condemning Iran's move and announcing it would summon the Iranian ambassador. French officials described the closure as unjustified and signalled that further diplomatic measures could follow.

Iran responded by accusing France of displaying "crocodile tears" and pointed to broader political and cultural disagreements, including recent tensions over issues such as the Mahsa Amini protests.

The French language centre in Tehran remains closed by order of Iranian judicial authorities. Both governments have exchanged accusations, with Iran insisting the centre broke laws and France pledging to respond diplomatically.

The situation has created a new point of friction between Iran and France, with diplomatic relations strained and no immediate resolution in sight.

France is expected to formally summon Iran's envoy in Paris and may introduce further diplomatic or cultural measures in response. The future status of the centre and any impact on other cultural or educational exchanges between the two countries remain uncertain.