**French Tourist Released After Two Years in Iranian Custody**

**French President Emmanuel Macron confirms the release of Olivier Grondeau, a tourist detained in Iran, as concerns over other detained nationals grow.**

Olivier Grondeau, a 34-year-old French traveler, has been released from Iranian custody after enduring over two years of unjust imprisonment, as announced by President Emmanuel Macron. Grondeau, who was arrested in southern Iran in October 2022, faced serious charges of "conspiracy against the Islamic republic," which his family has persistently denied.

On Thursday, Macron declared Grondeau's release with relief, stating he is now back with his family in France, expressing happiness for their reunion. Grondeau's detainment was characterized by his own statements labeling his situation as "being held hostage," and this sentiment echoes through multiple accounts of tourists and dual nationals in Iran being targeted under unfounded charges.

The release comes amid heightened tensions regarding other French citizens currently detained in Iran, specifically Cecile Kohler and her partner Jacques Paris. They have been imprisoned since May 2022 on allegations of inciting protests, and their families claim they are not involved in any wrongdoing. Macron urged for their release, emphasizing the urgency as concerns mount over their health.

Human rights advocates have pointed out a troubling trend in Iran’s treatment of tourists, often using them as bargaining chips during diplomatic discussions. Recently, the British Foreign Office confirmed the detention of British couple Craig and Lindsay Foreman, charged with espionage in Kerman, while Italian journalist Cecilia Sala recounts her experience after facing solitary confinement.

The continual situation of wrongful detentions raises alarm for international travelers venturing into Iran, signaling a need for vigilance and advocacy on their behalf.