"Exhausted" Frenchman Reveals Identity After Nearly Two Years in Iran

A Frenchman detained in Iran since October 2022 has revealed his identity in an audio message aired on French radio, expressing growing exhaustion over his imprisonment. 

Olivier Grondeau, 34, had previously been known only by his first name, and French authorities had not disclosed any information about his case. 

His message highlighted the dire conditions he and two other French nationals face.

"Exhausted" Frenchman Reveals Identity After Nearly Two Years in Iran.

Grondeau, who was arrested in Shiraz, Iran, was sentenced to five years in prison for "conspiracy against the Islamic republic." 

His family firmly rejects the charges, describing him as a passionate fan of Persian poetry who was visiting Iran on a tourist visa as part of a world tour. His mother confirmed his imprisonment, sharing details in an interview with France Inter.

In his emotional audio message, Grondeau warned that he and the other French detainees—teacher Cecile Kohler and her partner, Jacques Paris—were "exhausted." 

Kohler and Paris were detained in May 2022 and are accused of attempting to incite labor protests. Their families have denied these charges, emphasizing that the pair's intentions were peaceful.

Grondeau directly addressed the French authorities, urging them to act. "Cecile's strength, Jacques' strength, Olivier's strength—it is all running out," he said. 

He stressed the need for the French government to intervene, declaring that it was their responsibility to ensure the survival of the three detainees who are in deteriorating conditions.

The French government has raised significant concerns over the conditions faced by the detained nationals. 

Last Friday, France summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest the trio's prolonged imprisonment, calling them "state hostages." 

French officials condemned their treatment, describing it as "undignified" and potentially constituting torture under international law.