Frenchman Olivier Grondeau, Held in Iran on Espionage Charges, Appeals for Help

Jan 13, 2025, 09:20 AM

French national Olivier Grondeau, 34, has publicly revealed his identity and appealed for help after being detained in Iran since October 2022. Arrested in Shiraz while on a world tour, he was accused of plotting against the Islamic Republic and sentenced to five years in prison for espionage. In an audio message broadcast on France Inter radio, Grondeau described his detention as "arbitrary" and said, "Our strength is depleting." He asserted his innocence and claimed to be a "hostage" and a victim of "political blackmail" between France and Iran. Held in Evin Prison, he is the third French national detained in Iran. His mother has also spoken out, expressing concern over his deteriorating condition.