Tehran: Deputy Secretary of the High Council for Human Rights Khosrow Hakimi has spoken out against France’s detention of Iranian national Mahdieh Esfandiari, labeling it a blatant violation of freedom of expression.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Esfandiari, a Palestinian rights activist and graduate of the University of Lyon, disappeared in early March. The Iranian government confirmed her detention following diplomatic efforts, revealing she was in police custody.

Hakimi, who also serves as an advisor to the Iranian Judiciary chief, criticized France for its inconsistency in defending human rights. Despite claiming to uphold freedom, human rights, and republican values, he argued that France’s actions contradicted its stated commitments. He highlighted these points during a meeting in Tehran addressing Western human rights narratives.

Hakimi pointed out issues such as systematic racism, religious discrimination, particularly against Muslim women and girls, impunity for human rights violators, and severe restrictions on freedom of expression in France. He noted that these actions represent systematic violations of international human rights standards.

The Paris Prosecutor’s Office has charged Esfandiari with terrorism and crimes related to social media activity, specifically content supporting Gaza on a Telegram channel. Hakimi argued that France’s stance effectively criminalizes defending the oppressed people of Gaza and Palestine.

Hakimi emphasized that Esfandiari’s detention violates fundamental human rights outlined in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.