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In a strong show of solidarity, six prominent French public figures have issued a joint statement condemning what they describe as the Iranian regime’s escalating practice of “hostage diplomacy” and its alleged manipulation of French media and judicial institutions.
The statement comes in the wake of the release of French hostage Olivier Grondeau, announced on Thursday, March 20, 2025. While expressing relief at Grondeau’s freedom, the signatories voiced deep concern about the circumstances surrounding his release, suggesting it may have been part of a troubling quid pro quo arrangement targeting Iran’s democratic opposition.
“We welcome the release of hostage Olivier Grondeau,” the statement reads. “We are happy for him and his family. This terrible ordeal, provoked by the Iranian regime, has finally come to an end for him.” The group emphasized that Grondeau’s release should not overshadow the plight of other European hostages still detained in Iran, including French citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris.
At the center of their concerns is what appears to be a coordinated campaign against Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). The signatories allege that recent defamatory reports in French media outlets were orchestrated to satisfy Tehran’s demands as part of negotiations for Grondeau’s release.
The statement specifically references allegations of financial misconduct against Rajavi that were reportedly submitted to the French public prosecutor. The signatories pointedly note that similar accusations were thoroughly investigated between 2002 and 2014 by French authorities, resulting in a definitive dismissal of the case by investigating judge Marc Trévidic.
“This blatant manipulation of the judiciary and the media for political purposes is both unethical and dangerous,” the group stated. “It is deeply concerning that instead of holding the Iranian regime accountable for its ‘hostage diplomacy’ and its ongoing human rights violations, efforts are being made to undermine those who stand for democracy and freedom in Iran.”
The joint statement was signed by a diverse group of French dignitaries, including Dominique Attias, a lawyer and President of the Board of the European Bars Federation; Ingrid Betancourt, an author, former Colombian Senator and herself a former hostage; Yves Bonnet, former Director of French Counterintelligence; Jean-Pierre Brard, President of the French Committee for a Democratic Iran and former Member of Parliament; Jean-François Legaret, President of the Foundation for Middle East Studies; and Gilbert Mitterrand, President of the Danielle Mitterrand Foundation and former Member of Parliament.
The intervention comes at a time of heightened tension between Western nations and Iran. Tehran has increasingly employed what critics call “hostage diplomacy” – detaining foreign nationals on dubious charges to gain leverage in international negotiations. This practice has been condemned by human rights organizations and governments worldwide.
“We strongly condemn this shameful blackmail by the Iranian regime, which, as past experience shows, will only encourage further hostage-taking,” the statement continues.
The case has broader implications for France’s approach to Iran at a time when the international community remains divided over how to address the regime’s nuclear program, regional activities, and human rights record. Critics argue that concessions to secure the release of hostages may embolden Tehran, while supporters contend that pragmatic engagement is necessary to bring detainees home.
The signatories concluded with a firm declaration against what they see as a politically motivated defamation campaign, demanding “an end to the use of democratic institutions as tools for political concessions.”
As of press time, French government officials have not publicly responded to the allegations raised in the joint statement.
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12 Comments
The French officials are right to condemn Iran’s manipulative media tactics and hostage diplomacy. These practices erode trust and undermine diplomatic efforts. Ensuring the safe return of all European hostages should be a top priority.
Absolutely. Iran must be held responsible for these egregious human rights abuses. The international community needs to apply strong pressure to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
This is a troubling situation, highlighting Iran’s concerning hostage diplomacy tactics. Holding European citizens hostage is unacceptable and undermines international norms. I hope the French government continues to pressure Iran to release all remaining detainees.
Agreed. Iran’s behavior is deeply concerning and sets a dangerous precedent. The international community must hold Iran accountable for these actions.
The French officials are right to shine a light on Iran’s disturbing hostage diplomacy tactics and media manipulation. This is a serious violation of human rights and undermines global stability. I hope the international community takes strong action to pressure Iran to release all remaining hostages.
Absolutely. Iran’s behavior is unacceptable and must be condemned. The safe return of all European hostages should be a top priority for the international community.
This is a deeply concerning situation. Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy and media manipulation is a clear attempt to exert control and leverage. The French government is right to call out these practices and demand the release of all remaining hostages. This is a serious human rights issue that the international community must address.
I agree. Iran’s actions are a blatant violation of international law and norms. The international community must take firm action to hold Iran accountable and secure the release of all hostages.
While I’m relieved that Olivier Grondeau has been released, the circumstances surrounding his release are deeply troubling. Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy and media manipulation is a serious concern that the international community must address. The plight of the remaining European hostages, including the French citizens, is deeply worrying.
Absolutely. Iran’s behavior in this case is unacceptable and undermines global stability. The international community must take strong action to pressure Iran to release all remaining hostages and cease these abusive practices.
This is a complex and troubling situation. While I’m relieved that Olivier Grondeau has been released, the circumstances surrounding his release are concerning. Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy is unacceptable and must be condemned.
I agree. The plight of the other European hostages, including the French citizens, is deeply worrying. The international community needs to take a firm stance against Iran’s blatant disregard for human rights and international law.