Diplomatic channels are buzzing in the French capital this week. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived for a critical summit. He will meet with his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot.
The agenda focuses on two volatile issues. First, there is a deepening standoff over Iran’s nuclear program. Second, a high-stakes prisoner exchange is on the table.
The meeting takes place in a tense climate. Relations between Tehran and Paris have deteriorated significantly.
This follows France’s support for international access to Iranian nuclear sites. These facilities sustained heavy damage during a 12-day war in mid-June.
The Nuclear Deadlock
The shadow of the June conflict hangs over the negotiations. Airstrikes crippled key infrastructure. Consequently, Tehran blocked inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iranian authorities have scrapped the old cooperation framework. They argue that the bombed sites present severe “safety and security risks.” Therefore, they believe the old agreements are obsolete.
Tehran is now demanding a new framework. They insist this must happen before any inspections resume.
The situation worsened in October. France, Germany, and Britain triggered “snapback” UN sanctions. This effectively dismantled the 2015 nuclear deal.
Araghchi previously dismissed talks as futile. However, his presence in Paris marks a notable diplomatic pivot.
The Hostage Trade
Beyond the nuclear file, diplomats are negotiating over human lives. A potential swap deal involves three individuals.
- Tehran’s Demand: Iran wants the case against Mahdieh Esfandiari resolved. The 40-year-old Iranian national was arrested in France in February on terrorism charges. She was released on bail in October.
- Paris’s Demand: France seeks the freedom of Cécile Kohler (41) and Jacques Paris (72). The couple has been detained in Iran for over three years.
There is a promising sign. Iranian authorities recently transferred Kohler and Paris to French diplomats in Tehran. However, they remain barred from leaving the country.
This week’s meeting is the final hurdle. It aims to secure their exit visas. This outcome likely depends on a favorable result for Esfandiari in France.
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