France insists on the release of its detained citizens in Iran and is preparing to file a lawsuit.

French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his country's commitment to seeking the release of French citizens detained in Iran, describing them as "hostages."

This came in a tweet he posted on the "X" platform on Wednesday, May 7, where he wrote: "I assure their families of our unwavering support," indicating that France is "working tirelessly" to resolve this crisis.

French national Cecile Collier, a university professor in modern literature, and her partner Jacques Barry have been detained in Iran since May 2022 on charges of "espionage."

In September 2023, Iranian authorities announced the completion of investigations with them, paving the way for their trial. A third French citizen, Olivier Groulx, has been detained since the same year.

In early April 2024, Paris revealed its intention to file a complaint against Tehran before the International Court of Justice, accusing it of "violating consular protection laws."

This escalation followed repeated appeals from the families of the detainees, with Collier's family demanding urgent intervention on January 31 during a gathering marking a thousand days since her detention.

Iran responded to Macron's criticism _describing the detention as "arbitrary and inappropriate"_ by stating that its judicial decisions are "in accordance with the law" and deeming his statements "unconstructive."

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barou had previously warned citizens in January against traveling to Iran until the detained individuals are "completely released," highlighting the escalating tensions between the two countries.

France continues to mobilize diplomatic and judicial efforts to ensure the return of its citizens, while Tehran rejects any characterization of the issue outside its alleged legal framework.