Iran Knows My Son Is Innocent, Says Mother of French Man Held in Evin Jail
The mother of Olivier Grondeau claims Iranian authorities know her son is innocent yet continue to detain him in Evin prison
Olivier Grondeau, Thérèse Grondeau, Iran, Evin Prison, Shiraz, France, Political Detention
Shiraz: Olivier Grondeau, a French citizen, has been stuck in an Iranian prison for two years. His mom, Thérèse, is speaking out, saying the authorities know he’s innocent but still keep him locked up.
Olivier was arrested in his hotel room back in October 2022, right when protests were heating up in Iran. He was just traveling through the country as part of a world tour. It’s been a tough ride for his family, especially for Thérèse, who had no idea if he was even alive after his arrest.
He’s been sentenced to five years for supposedly gathering information for espionage, which he firmly denies. After keeping quiet for a while to help with diplomatic talks, he decided to go public, sharing an audio message that accused Iran of using him as a pawn against France.
Thérèse shared how dark those early days were, not knowing what was happening to her son. She said he’s a private guy, but revealing his identity has really lifted his spirits. He’s been in touch with other French detainees, and they’re all feeling the pressure.
In his audio message, Olivier called on French authorities to step up and help him and his fellow detainees. He described a harrowing experience of being taken from his hotel and held in a windowless room. He even mentioned a Spanish tourist who was released after a few months, showing just how serious the situation is.
His family only got a sign of life a month after his arrest, and it took 72 days for him to make his first call home. The conditions in prison sound pretty rough, with overcrowding and not much comfort. His friend Tristan said he tries to keep his family calm, even though he’s really struggling.
Thérèse mentioned that their calls are always monitored, making it hard to communicate freely. When asked what she’d say to the Iranian authorities, she simply stated they know he’s innocent and that his case is baseless.
Olivier’s identity was revealed shortly after another journalist was released, showing that diplomatic efforts can sometimes pay off. Thérèse is hopeful for her son and others still detained, and she’s been sending him books and keeping his spirits up as best as she can.
Despite everything, Olivier still remembers his friends’ birthdays and asks his mom to bake cakes for them. He’s a real gem, and his friends are lucky to have him.