Title: “Fariba Adelkhah, Franco-Iranian researcher, free after four years of captivity in Iran”
Introduction:
In news that sparked widespread relief, French-Iranian researcher Fariba Adelkhah has finally returned to France after being detained in Iran for four years. This renowned anthropologist, research director at the Sciences Po International Research Center in Paris, was arrested in June 2019 alongside her companion Roland Marchal, also a French researcher. While Marchal was released in 2020, Adelkhah was held in captivity until her recent release. This news is a testimony to the commitment and determination of French diplomacy to obtain the release of its unjustly imprisoned nationals.
A long ordeal:
Fariba Adelkhah’s ordeal began in 2019, when she was arrested in Iran on national security charges. In February this year, she was released but prevented from leaving the country, which was heartbreaking for her and her loved ones. Fortunately, after four years of deprivation of liberty, she finally returned to French soil and expressed her gratitude to French diplomacy and all those who contributed to her release. She also stressed the importance of the continued support of the committee which fought for her freedom and for the defense of scientific freedom in general.
The situation of other French detainees in Iran:
Although the release of Fariba Adelkhah is a cause for relief, it is important to remember that there are still four French people detained in Iran. Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, arrested in May 2022 during a tourist trip, Louis Arnaud, a 36-year-old traveler, and another French detainee whose identity has not been made public are still undergoing imprisonment in Iran. France therefore called for their immediate release and reaffirmed its commitment to fight for the release of its nationals unjustly detained by the Islamic Republic.
The fate of Westerners detained in Iran:
In addition to French citizens, many Western nationals are also detained in Iran, used as bargaining chips in political negotiations. It is important to emphasize that these people are often considered innocent by their supporters and that they are victims of a state hostage policy on the part of Iran. As Iran and major international powers work to restore the 2015 nuclear deal, it is crucial not to forget the individuals who continue to suffer unjustly due to political considerations.
Conclusion:
The release of Fariba Adelkhah is pleasing news which marks the end of a long ordeal for the Franco-Iranian researcher. However, it is essential to continue to draw attention to other French detainees in Iran and to all Western nationals who are unjustly imprisoned. France must continue to advocate for their release and work with the international community to put an end to this practice of state hostage-taking. Together we must defend freedom and human rights everywhere.