The Iranian regime claims the two were involved in gathering sensitive information under the guise of tourism and social activism. French authorities have strongly denied the accusations and condemned the detentions as politically motivated.

This is part of a well-known tactic by Iran, which has repeatedly detained foreign nationals on dubious charges to pressure Western countries and gain leverage in diplomatic negotiations. The couple, whose identities have not been publicly disclosed, were arrested during widespread anti-regime protests.

The case adds further tension to already strained relations between France and Iran.