Man Detained Outside Iranian Consulate in Paris After Making Threats with Fake Explosives Vest

A man wearing a fake explosives vest was detained outside the Iranian Consulate in Paris on Friday after making threats and causing a security lockdown in the area. The suspect, born in 1963 in Iran, had previously been convicted for setting fire to the gates of the Iranian embassy in Paris during a 2023 protest against the Iranian government.

The incident unfolded around 11 a.m. when the man was noticed outside the consulate. A witness reported that he had a grenade and an explosives vest. Elite police forces and soldiers quickly surrounded the area and barred traffic during the security intervention.

The man allegedly made threats of violent acts inside the consulate but then left the building alone. Police detained him and found no actual explosives or weapons on him or in his vehicle. The explosives vest turned out to be fake.

The Paris prosecutor's office has opened an investigation into death threats and is trying to determine the motive for the incident. The suspect was known to authorities, having received an eight-month suspended sentence in October 2023 for setting car tires on fire at the gate of the Iranian Embassy in Paris. He was banned from carrying weapons and appearing in the 16th arrondissement where the consulate is located.

Why this matters: The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and the international community, as well as the potential security risks posed by individuals acting out against foreign diplomatic missions. It also underscores the need for robust security measures to protect embassies and consulates in major cities like Paris.

The suspect is now in custody as the investigation continues. "The individual has been arrested and placed in custody," confirmed a police source. The area around the consulate was cordoned off for several hours as authorities responded to the incident and ensured there was no further threat.

Key Takeaways

• Man detained outside Iranian consulate in Paris for threats
• Suspect had prior conviction for setting fire to embassy gates
• Fake explosives vest found, no actual weapons or explosives
• Incident highlights tensions between Iran and international community
• Area cordoned off as authorities responded to the threat