In a statement to “France24” channel, he revealed an agreement between Tehran and Paris to complete an exchange deal between the two French citizens, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, and the detained Iranian, Mahdieh Esfandiari, adding that the legal and judicial procedures will be completed in approximately two months in preparation for the exchange.
Araqchi affirmed that Iran has not interfered and will not interfere in Lebanese affairs, stressing that files related to Lebanon are discussed with full respect for its sovereignty. He attributed the delay in starting the exchange process to the completion of judicial procedures in both countries.
Mahdieh Esfandiari faces charges related to online posts, which were considered “glorifying the attacks that occurred in Israel on October 7, 2023, and incitement to violent acts against the Jewish community.”
Araqchi stated, “This exchange was negotiated between us and France, and a clear agreement was formulated, and we are now waiting for the completion of the legal process in Tehran and Paris.”
The Iranian Foreign Minister is currently visiting France, where he is expected to meet with his counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot, as part of a series of bilateral diplomatic meetings.
