France releases two nationals detained in Iran after three and a half years

Two French citizens arrived home Wednesday after Iran released them following three and a half years in detention, marking a surprise diplomatic move. The release occurred as France actively positioned itself to distance from regional Middle East conflicts. France's government explicitly denied any connection between the prisoners' release and ongoing wars in the region, signaling an attempt to maintain independent diplomatic relations with Iran. The move reflects broader European efforts to navigate geopolitical tensions while preserving dialogue with Tehran.